Nike Promotes Ann Miller, Rob Leinwand to Key Roles
Nike has made two new appointments to its senior leadership team.
The Swoosh on Wednesday announced it has promoted Ann Miller, Nike’s current executive vice president and chief legal officer, to the role of EVP global sports marketing. An 18-year veteran of Nike, Miller takes over the role from John Slusher who is retiring from Nike after 26 years.
The appointments mark the latest leadership shifts for Nike, which welcomed Elliott Hill as its new chief executive officer earlier this month.
“Ann possesses a unique blend of athlete mindset, deep legal expertise, and exceptional leadership. Her appointment is a testament to the value she brings to Nike,” said Hill in a statement. “I have the utmost confidence Ann will inspire, innovate, and push the boundaries of what’s possible and continue to make a lasting impact on our business and the world of sport.”
In her new role, Miller will continue to report to Hill and will help grow Nike’s portfolio of athletes, leagues and federations. Miller will also integrate athletes into the brand’s newest innovations, products and storytelling. Her hiring comes shortly after Nike announced that it extended its apparel and uniform contract with the WNBA, the NBA and the NBA G League is it looks to cement its presence in key sports like basketball.
Rob Leinwand, vice president and deputy general counsel, has been elevated to the role of EVP, chief legal officer. He will also report to Hill and join Nike’s senior leadership team.
“Rob is an exceptional lawyer and a trusted advisor who has consistently demonstrated excellence in his work for Nike. I’m thrilled to welcome him to our Senior Leadership Team, where his expertise will be invaluable in driving our business forward,” Hill said.
Nike also announced that its chief supply chain officer Venkatesh Alagirisamy will now also report directly to Hill as a member of the senior leadership team “as the company continues to prioritize speed and efficiency.”
Earlier this month, Nike offered mixed results in its first earnings call since announcing that its CEO John Donahoe would step down and be replaced by Elliott Hill. Given the CEO shift, Nike withdrew its guidance for the year and said it would provide quarterly guidance throughout 2025.