The co-founder of the Washington County-based sports apparel giant says he wants CEO Mark Parker to succeed him when he leaves role as chairman.
BY JACOB PALMER | DIGITAL NEWS EDITOR
Co-founder of Nike Inc., Phil Knight, says he wants CEO Mark Parker to succeed him when he leaves role as chairman.
“For me, Nike has always been more than just a company – it has been my life’s passion,” said Knight in a news release. “Over the years, I’ve spent a great deal of time considering how I might someday evolve my ownership and leadership of Nike in a way that benefits all of our stakeholders. Today, we have taken a number of important steps that will continue to promote Nike’s long-term growth.”
Knight is expected to step down, making way for Parker, in 2016.
“Phil founded Nike to serve athletes,” Parker said. “That vision and inspiration continues to drive our success today around the world. I have been privileged to work with Phil for over 35 years, and Nike’s exceptional management team and I are committed to building on Phil’s vision to drive the next era of growth for Nike.”
The Portland Business Journal reports that Knight intends to continue to be “actively involved in the company.”
