As part of a continuing turnaround plan, Nike revealed that it has created a new chief operating officer role while trimming executive positions.
In an email sent to employees this week, CEO Elliott Hill said that the company will also appoint the leaders of its four geographic regions, cut the chief technology officer and chief commercial officer roles and shift the direct-to-consumer function — and sales — under the guidance of the its finance boss.
The moves were later announced in a press release on Tuesday, with Hill explaining that the changes were necessary in order to reduce layers of management as the brand leans into its “Win Now” initiative.
“This move is about growth and offense — giving Sales and Nike Direct an even stronger voice in how we set strategy and invest,” Hill said “It also reflects the critical role the marketplace plays in driving Nike’s success, including our Win Now actions. Our physical and digital footprints will continue to celebrate the passion and emotion of sport, highlight our innovations and game-changing products, and inspire consumers wherever they experience our brands.”
Venkatesh “Venky” Alagirisamy, who has been with the company for near 20 years, will step into the new chief operating officer position on December 8. He previously led Nike’s supply chain and operations. But it also means the chief technology officer role will be removed and Muge Dogan will exit the company.
Craig Williams, will also leave the brand and the chief commercial officer position will be eliminated.
Meanwhile, Nike named the senior leaders of its four geographic regions with Angela Dong for Greater China, Tom Peddie in leads North America, Carl Grebert for Europe and Cathy Sparks in Asia Pacific and Latin America. All four will report directly to Hill.
“You’ve heard me say before we need everyone pushing forward with focus, speed, collaboration and urgency,” Hill said. “I’m grateful to each of you for answering this call and I know we are making meaningful progress in creating a bright future of our own design.”
The latest change mark swift adjustments that Hill has made since returning to lead Nike last fall. Hill spent 32 years with the company in various roles and retired in 2020.
Hill has made it clear that focus on performance sports and competition is a priority along with strengthening Nike’s retail presence which includes revamps to brick-and-mortar locations. The company has also resumed selling its products directly on Amazon.
Nike will announce its second-quarter fiscal 2026 results on December 18.
