The Finish Line, Inc. has established a division to focus exclusively on its growing e-commerce channel. The new e-commerce division will be headed by 21-year company veteran Donald E. Courtney, who has been named president, e-commerce, effective immediately.
Before being appointed to this new post, Courtney was chief Information officer/executive vice president of Information Systems and Distribution, a position he has held since 2003.
The Finish Line said the new division unites the Finish Line e-commerce advertising, design and content team, which was based in the marketing department, with the technology and operations team that was formerly part of the information systems group. Among other focus areas, the new e-commerce division will enhance FinishLine.com to enrich the customer experience and continue to expand its sales and profitability contribution.
“We are committed to continuing to grow our e-commerce business and further develop a comprehensive Internet strategy in-line with our strategic direction,” said Finish Line CEO Glenn Lyon. “We increased online sales by 14% in the first quarter and look forward to building on that growth by establishing a focused e-commerce division that integrates content with technology under the guidance of Don Courtney, an experienced and proven leader. Don built our technologically advanced distribution and information systems infrastructure, and we are confident he is the right leader to take our e-commerce business to the next level as well.”
“I'm excited to bring together the strong talents we have within our company along with other resources to build a team focused on new ways to make the e-commerce channel even more relevant for customers as part of our overall cross-channel strategy,” Courtney said. “This is the right time to deepen our commitment to the Internet and to e-commerce as a growth vehicle. Our goal is to offer a consistent, premium brand experience for customers no matter how, when or where they shop with us.”
Courtney, 55, joined the Finish Line in 1988 as Director, Merchandise Information Systems (MIS) and Distribution and was quickly promoted to Vice President. In 1997, he was promoted to Senior Vice President, MIS and Distribution and held that post until he was named Executive Vice President of Information Systems and Distribution, Chief Information Officer and Assistant Secretary of the company. Prior to joining the Finish Line, Courtney was with Guarantee Auto Stores, Inc. Courtney has a BA from Anderson University and an MBA in finance from Indiana University.
