Nike execs step into new roles

BEAVERTON, Ore. — Nike has promoted VP Michael Spillane to VP and GM of Nike’s Greater China geography effective June 1.

Spillane was most recently the CEO and president of Umbro, which Nike divested of last year. Spillane replaces Craig Cheek who will move to a global role as VP and GM of Nike’s Young Athletes, where he will oversee strategy and drive growth supporting the company’s key categories around the world.

“We are very pleased that Michael, a seasoned industry veteran, will lead us forward in China. His strong leadership, brand expertise and global experience will be instrumental in driving continued growth for Nike in this very important geography,” said Gary DeStefano, president of Global Operations.

Spillane has more than 25 years of management experience in the apparel and textile industries. He joined Converse in 2007 as president of North America Footwear before transitioning after one year to lead the growth strategy in Converse Apparel as president, North America and Global Product. He was then promoted to CEO of Converse in October of 2009 where he successfully led that brand for more than two years and grew the business. In 2011, Spillane became the CEO of Umbro where he oversaw the successful divestiture and transition of Umbro to Iconix earlier this year. Previous to Nike, Spillane held CEO positions at Polartec and Malden Mills as well as senior positions at Tommy Hilfiger and Jockey. He will report to DeStefano.

Cheek, who joined Nike in 1990, has held various leadership roles during his 23 years with the company. More recently, he led US Footwear, was promoted to VP and GM of Nike North America geography, and then moved to China to lead the Greater China geography. Cheek will report to Trevor Edwards, EVP global brand and category management.