Saurav Pandey
October 8, 2024
Hill started as an intern at Nike in 1988 and became the company’s CEO in 2024 after 30+ years with the company.
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Hill consistently moved up the ranks at Nike, progressing from intern to CEO with various roles in management, director, vice president, and president of consumer and marketplace.
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Hill briefly retired in 2020 but returned to take on the CEO role in 2024.
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Hill’s rise reflects a mindset of being “willing and able” to take on new roles, responsibilities, and challenges throughout his career.
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Having good bosses and strong managers played a crucial role in Hill’s career progression, ensuring continued learning and growth opportunities.
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Hill’s strong connections with industry figures, including Michael Jordan and Nike executives, helped him build a support system throughout his career.
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Nike’s executive chairman praised Hill’s global expertise, leadership style, and deep industry understanding as reasons for his selection as CEO.
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Verma, a career coach, emphasizes that Hill’s success was the result of hard work, skill-building, and seizing opportunities in an environment that rewards innovation.
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Hill’s story highlights that while upward mobility is possible, disparities in career advancement still exist, particularly for women and people of color.
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