Former Nike VP joins JD Sports as non-exec director

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
Sep 9, 2021

As non-executive directorships go, this a big appointment. Former Nike and Puma exec Bert Hoyt has joined UK-based sportswear retail giant JD Sports Fashion’s board, effective immediately.

Hoyt is recognised as one of the most eminent leaders in the sportswear sector over recent years and joins with significant experience of global markets. 

Having joined US sports giant Nike in 1998, he was latterly vice-president, general manager of Nike EMEA, a position he occupied until he retired in January. 

He’s acknowledged for transforming Nike's business in Western Europe and EMEA over the last nine years, achieving substantial growth in revenues and profitability. 

Prior to Nike, Hoyt spent 10 years at Puma as general manager for Puma International. Previously, he was also a Top 200 ATP Tennis professional from 1977 to 1984.

Peter Cowgill, JD’s executive chairman, said: ”Bert has an extensive knowledge of the market in which JD operates and a deep understanding of key supplier relationships, market dynamics and international operations. I have every confidence that Bert will have an extremely positive impact on the future of JD and its ongoing growth and success”.

Cowgill also added: “I am also pleased to confirm that we are making substantial progress with regard to additional board appointments, which will address the composition, skill sets and balance of the board.”