Nike Inc. announced that John Thompson, Jr., a director of the company since 1991 and legendary coach of the Georgetown University men’s basketball team, has decided to retire and will not stand for re-election to the Nike Inc. Board of Directors at the September 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
Thompson’s retirement will be effective as of the end of Nike’s fiscal year on May 31, 2020, after which he will serve the board as a Director Emeritus.
“We’d like to thank Coach Thompson for his countless contributions to Nike and to the world of sport. His leadership transcends all arenas, and we will forever be grateful for his insights, experience and example,” said Mark Parker, executive chairman of Nike Inc. “We look forward to continuing to benefit from his guidance as he transitions into the role of Director Emeritus.”
“I’ve known John Thompson for almost 50 years and Nike would not be the company it is today without his many contributions,” said Phil Knight, Nike Inc. co-founder and chairman emeritus. “He’s long been recognized as a pioneer, a leader and a hall of famer in the game of basketball. For Nike, it’s his wisdom that sets him apart and I know as Director Emeritus he’ll continue to provide the board with the unique insights that have defined him.”
Photo courtesy Nike
