Data is revolutionizing the sports industry, and Nike is at the forefront of this transformation. Nike’s Advanced Innovation Collective (AIC) is driving innovation through data-driven insights, shaping the future of athletic performance and product development. This article explores the critical role of the Director, Digital Data Platform & Capabilities Innovation within Nike’s AIC, focusing on how this leadership position leverages data to propel Nike’s innovation strategy.
The Power of Data at Nike
Nike isn’t just about equipping athletes; it’s about understanding them. By harnessing the power of athlete data, Nike is gaining deeper insights into performance, preferences, and needs. This data-driven approach fuels the creation of cutting-edge products and experiences designed to enhance athletic potential. The AIC’s Digital Capabilities team plays a pivotal role in this process, integrating digital capabilities and experiences to empower innovation across the entire organization.
Leading the Data Revolution: The Director’s Role
The Director, Digital Data Platform & Capabilities Innovation is a key leadership position within Nike’s AIC. This role leads the Digital Data Platform & Capabilities team, collaborating closely with various teams across AIC, Global Technology, and other enterprise partners. The Director’s primary focus is to envision, plan, and execute strategic priorities related to data platforms and digital capabilities. This involves:
- Leading the development and implementation of the next generation of data platforms and digital technologies.
- Working closely with business and technology leaders to ensure strategic alignment and drive data-driven decisions.
- Overseeing the integration of people, processes, data, and tools to maximize value creation.
- Analyzing and evaluating the competitive landscape of digital capabilities and emerging technologies.
- Conducting strategic planning and business reviews to ensure continuous improvement and innovation.
Qualifications and Skills for a Data-Driven Leader
Nike is seeking a Director with a proven track record of success in team leadership, business results, and cross-functional collaboration. Key qualifications include:
- A Bachelor’s Degree or higher, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 9+ years of experience leading digital capabilities management or product management with a focus on data.
- 5+ years of experience leading complex digital transformation programs involving cross-functional teams.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver business results in dynamic and fast-paced environments.
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to leverage data for decision-making.
- Strong team leadership and stakeholder management skills.
- A bias for action and a focus on progress over perfection.
- Expertise in design thinking, iterative development, and test-and-learn methodologies.
Driving Innovation Through Data and Insights
The Director’s work centers around driving innovation through the development of strategic and cutting-edge technologies that leverage athlete data and insights. This involves a deep understanding of business and user needs, as well as the data, technology, and experiences required to deliver value at scale and speed. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and managing a team of Digital Capabilities Managers and Data Analysts.
- Defining the business direction and desired outcomes by developing a digital capabilities vision, strategy, business case, KPIs, and roadmap.
- Driving the effective and efficient integration of people, processes, data, and tools to unlock business value.
- Assessing and managing the internal and competitive digital capabilities landscape, including emerging technologies.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Sport
Nike’s commitment to data-driven innovation is transforming the athletic landscape. By leveraging the power of data, Nike is creating groundbreaking products, personalized experiences, and deeper connections with athletes worldwide. The Director, Digital Data Platform & Capabilities Innovation plays a crucial role in this evolution, leading the charge towards a future where data empowers athletes and fuels innovation in the world of sport. If you are a driven, data-focused leader with a passion for innovation and a desire to shape the future of sport, explore career opportunities at Nike.