BEAVERTON, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 14, 2008--NIKE, Inc.
(NYSE:NKE) today announced that veteran Keith Houlemard has been named
President of the Jordan Brand. Houlemard will be responsible for
driving continued market leadership and growth for all aspects of the
Jordan Brand. Houlemard replaces Garry Cook.
Houlemard, 43, has been with Nike for more than 19 years working
in various leadership roles including Apparel Director for Jordan
Brand, U.S. Sales Director and U.S. Footwear Director. Most recently
as U.S. Director for Footwear Merchandising, Houlemard developed a
growth strategy across Nike's key categories and re-aligned the
merchandising organization which resulted in significant business
growth. In his new role, Houlemard will report directly to Craig
Zanon, head of global basketball for Nike.
"Keith brings strong brand experience and a deep understanding of
the basketball consumer," said Nike Brand President Charlie Denson.
"The Jordan Brand is strong and has tremendous global potential. We
look forward to his leadership as we continue to grow the Jordan Brand
and connect with consumers worldwide."
Michael Jordan, commenting on Houlemard's appointment, said:
"Keith has solid experience and a keen understanding of the consumer
market. As the Jordan Brand enters a new era, we welcome his return
and look forward to his leadership."
Nike's first Air Jordan shoe was launched to great acclaim in
1985, Michael Jordan's rookie year in the NBA, and instantly became
the industry's best-selling basketball shoe. The Jordan Brand was
created in 1997 as a division of Nike and today is one of the game's
premium global brands on and off the court. The Air Jordan is one of
the world's most recognizable franchises, known for its signature
Jumpman logo, innovative technology in basketball and forward-thinking
fashion. Earlier this year, Jordan Brand unveiled the Air Jordan XX3,
celebrating 23 years of a legacy started by the most revered
basketball athlete in history.
About Jordan Brand
A division of NIKE, Inc., Jordan Brand is a premium brand of
footwear, apparel and accessories inspired by the dynamic legacy,
vision and direct involvement of Michael Jordan. The Jordan Brand made
its debut in 1997 and has grown into a complete collection of
performance and lifestyle products for both men and women. The Jordan
Brand remains active in the community by donating a portion of its
proceeds to Jordan Fundamentals, an education grants program for
teachers. For more information on Jordan Brand, visit
www.Jumpman23.com.
About Nike
NIKE, Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading
designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear,
apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and
fitness activities. Wholly owned Nike subsidiaries include Converse
Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear,
apparel and accessories; Cole Haan Holdings Incorporated, which
designs, markets and distributes luxury shoes, handbags, accessories
and coats; Umbro Ltd., a leading United Kingdom-based global football
(soccer) brand; and Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets
and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel
and accessories. For more information, visit www.nikebiz.com.
CONTACT: Nike Inc.
Media Relations:
Kellie Leonard, 503-671-6171
or
Investor Relations:
Pam Catlett, 503-671-4589
SOURCE: NIKE, Inc.