Intern named Nike CEO in stunning promotion: ‘Best LinkedIn profile ever’

Elliott Hill’s LinkedIn profile has gone viral after he was announced the new CEO of global sportswear giant Nike.

Never stop hustling.

Elliott Hill is being hailed as one of the best examples of working your way to the top after being named as the new CEO of Nike.

After joining the company as an intern in 1988 and working 19 different jobs, the 60-year-old will now run the show after John Donahoe’s decision to step down.

“Nike’s new CEO may have the best LinkedIn profile ever — 32 years with the same company, from intern to CEO!” sports business influencer Joe Pompliano tweeted.

Elliott Hill's LinkedIn profile has been labelled the "best ever".

Hill was actually talked out of retirement to revive the sportswear giant, after its stock price dropped close to 10 per cent over the past 12 months.

The announcement of his return was well-received by the market as Nike jumped eight per cent, before cooling.

“Nike has always been a core part of who I am, and I’m ready to help lead it to an even brighter future. For 32 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with the best in the industry, helping to shape our company into the magical place it is today,” Hill said in a statement.

“I’m eager to reconnect with the many employees and trusted partners I’ve worked with over the years, and just as excited to build new, impactful relationships that will move us ahead. Together with our talented teams, I look forward to delivering bold, innovative products, that set us apart in the marketplace and captivate consumers for years to come.”

Hill has held several senior leadership positions in the company across Europe and North America and was consumer and market place president when he retired in 2020, having grown the business to more than $39 billion.

Elliott Hill has been named Nike CEO after starting with the company as an intern. Picture: Nike

“I am excited to welcome Elliott back to Nike. Given our needs for the future, the past performance of the business, and after conducting a thoughtful succession process, the Board concluded it was clear Elliott’s global expertise, leadership style, and deep understanding of our industry and partners, paired with his passion for sport, our brands, products, consumers, athletes, and employees, make him the right person to lead Nike’s next stage of growth,” Nike executive chairman Mark Parker said.

Donahoe will officially retire from his role next month but remain on in an advisory role through the end of January next year.

“It’s been an honour and privilege to be part of this incredible company, and I’ll always value my time at Nike and the opportunity to lead the organisation,” Donahoe said. “It became clear now was the time to make a leadership change, and Elliott is the right person. I look forward to seeing Nike and Elliott’s future successes.”