Nike appoints new DEI officer

Nike, Inc. has promoted Kizmet Mills to the role of chief diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) officer, effective November 11, the fifth person to take on the executive role since 2020.

Mills, who’s worked at Nike since 2016, was most recently senior director of Nike’s global diversity, equity and inclusion. Prior to that, she was senior director and head of global university relations and recruiting programs for the Coca-Cola Company.

She replaces James Loduca, who announced his departure from the U.S. sportswear giant on LinkedIn, citing family concerns. Loduca had been in the role for roughly 18 months, after replacing Nike’s former DEI chief Jarvis Sam, who left the company in November 2022, just six months into his role as chief DEI officer. 

Prior to Sam, Felicia Mayo served as the company’s chief talent, diversity and culture officer for two years until August 2022, succeeding Kellie Leonard, who was named Nike’s first head of diversity in 2018 and served in the role for two years.

“At Nike, we strive to be leaders in fostering a strong culture of belonging and believe that the work of our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team is critical to helping us achieve this mission,” said Nike, in a statement.

“Having held senior leadership roles within the company for more than eight years, Kizmet is well positioned to continue advancing Nike’s goals of championing all athletes.”

The DEI leadership transition comes two weeks after Elliott Hill took over as Nike CEO, replacing John Donahoe.