Nike Promotes KeJuan Wilkins to Chief Communications Officer as Nigel Powell Steps Down

Nike’s executive ranks are seeing a significant reshuffle this summer. KeJuan Wilkins, currently Vice President of Enterprise Communications, is stepping up to become the company’s new Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer (CCO). The move comes as long-serving leader Nigel Powell, who has held the CCO position for the past 24 years, departs the company.

A Rising Voice in Corporate Communications

With 17 years under his belt at Nike, Wilkins has built an impressive track record managing communications across multiple levels of the sportswear giant. His portfolio includes overseeing corporate and employee communications on a global scale, handling regional communications for Nike’s North America operations, and steering messaging for the Jordan Brand. Before his tenure at Nike, he gained experience in athletic footwear and spent time working with the New York Knicks. A University of Michigan graduate from Flint, Michigan, Wilkins brings both industry knowledge and sports management expertise to his new post.

What’s Changing at the Top

In his elevated role, Wilkins will take full responsibility for Nike’s worldwide corporate, consumer, and employee communications initiatives. He’ll report directly to John Donahoe, Nike’s President and CEO. “KeJuan is a best-in-class communications expert who is well positioned to help drive Nike into its next growth phase,” Donahoe said in a statement. “His insights and forward-thinking approach will be valuable assets for our executive team,” he added, emphasizing how Wilkins’ strategic mindset aligns with the company’s future direction.

The Powell Era Ends

Nigel Powell’s departure marks the end of a quarter-century legacy at Nike. Joining the company in 1999, Powell shaped Nike’s most pivotal communications moments over the past two decades. His leadership spanned multiple regions, including Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and North America, before he assumed the top communications role. “For 24 years, Nigel has been instrumental in guiding us through some of the biggest, most intricate, and defining moments in Nike’s history,” Donahoe noted, paying tribute to Powell’s contributions. “We’re grateful for his dedication and wish him well as he moves into the next chapter.”

Timeline and Transition

The leadership transition takes effect on June 1, giving the company time to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities between the outgoing and incoming Chief Communications Officers.