Nike Intern to Nike CEO: Man's 36-year-long Career Graph on LinkedIn Inspires People

Holding the topmost position in the company you’ve interned for is like winning the career lottery. It’s a dream that many of us chase, with eyes wide open and sometimes even closed. But only a select few manage to strike gold. So, when Nike announced their new CEO, people began searching for him – some to know more about him, others to seek inspiration from his illustrious career. And lo and behold, they discovered a Cinderella story for the ages. 36 years ago, Elliott Hill started his journey at Nike, not as a seasoned executive, but as a humble intern. A position he had begged for, for six long months.

Elliott Hill will succeed John Donahoe as the President and CEO of Nike on October 14. “Nike has always been a core part of who I am, and I’m ready to help lead it to an even brighter future. For 32 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with the best in the industry, helping to shape our company into the magical place it is today,” Hill said in a statement.

He added, “I’m eager to reconnect with the many employees and trusted partners I’ve worked with over the years, and just as excited to build new, impactful relationships that will move us ahead.”

From Nike Intern to Nike CEO

After graduating from Ohio University in 1988, Hill began his career at Nike as an Apparel Sales Representative intern. Following two years in this role, he transitioned to the sales team and quickly ascended through the ranks. By 1998, he was appointed Director of the Team Sports Division, a role he held for two years before becoming Vice President of EMEA Sales and Retail, where he served for three years. Shortly after, he was promoted to Vice President and General Manager of USA Retail, and then to Vice President of USA Commerce just a year later.

After more than 17 years at Nike, Hill took a break of about a year before returning to the company as Vice President of Global Retail. He held several key positions, and within seven years, he was promoted to President of Geographies and Sales. He then served as President of Geographies and Integrated Marketplace, and subsequently as President of Consumer and Marketplace. His second tenure at Nike lasted an impressive 14 years.

He then undertook several roles such as board member, board president, senior advisor at various companies. He also founded a company in the US.

In September 2024, the global sneaker and sportswear brand announced him as the CEO. Since then, Hill has updated his LinkedIn profile to reflect his new role, stating, “Incoming President and Chief Executive Officer at Nike.”