Ann Miller Steps Into Nike Global Sports Marketing Role as Company Reshapes Leadership Structure

Nike is making significant moves within its executive ranks, unveiling a comprehensive leadership restructuring that will reposition key executives across the organization. The sportswear giant announced that Ann Miller, a nearly 18-year veteran of the company, will transition from her current position as Chief Legal Officer to assume the role of Executive Vice President overseeing Global Sports Marketing operations.

This promotion marks a notable shift for Ann Miller, who stands out as a former college basketball player—a background that Nike executives emphasize when discussing her unique qualifications. According to Elliott Hill, Nike’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Miller’s appointment reflects the organization’s confidence in her multifaceted capabilities. “Ann’s combination of athlete mentality, robust legal acumen, and proven management skills positions her to excel in this expanded scope,” Hill noted in the announcement.

A Veteran Departs, New Leaders Emerge

The reshuffling follows the planned retirement of John Slusher, Nike’s longstanding Sports Marketing Executive Vice President who is stepping down after dedicating 26 years to the company. Slusher, who initially joined Nike back in 1998, built an impressive portfolio of athlete relationships and strategic sports partnerships over his tenure. His departure creates the opening that Ann Miller will fill, while also triggering a cascading set of leadership appointments throughout Nike’s senior management structure.

To fill the void left by Ann Miller’s promotion, Nike is elevating Rob Leinwand, currently serving as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel. Leinwand’s promotion to Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer recognizes his extensive experience navigating complex legal matters across the organization since joining Nike in 2004. This appointment adds him to Nike’s Senior Leadership Team, reinforcing the company’s commitment to operational excellence at the highest levels.

Broader Organizational Impact

Beyond these prominent shifts, Nike is also elevating Venkatesh Alagirisamy, the Chief Supply Chain Officer with 18 years of company experience, to report directly to CEO Elliott Hill—a move reflecting the organization’s emphasis on operational speed and efficiency. These interconnected appointments represent Nike’s strategic effort to streamline decision-making and strengthen its focus on athletic partnerships and product innovation.

Ann Miller’s expanded scope will encompass growing Nike’s portfolio across elite athletes, professional leagues, and international sports federations while ensuring seamless coordination between athlete engagement and product development initiatives. The leadership transitions underscore Nike’s commitment to maintaining its position as the global leader in athletic equipment, footwear, and apparel innovation.