Nike Inc. has appointed Kristin Bauer, a former Foot Locker executive, as chief operating officer of Converse, aiming to reverse the brand’s ongoing revenue decline. Bauer is set to begin her new role on September 14 and will report to Nike Chief Operating Officer Venky Alagarisamy, according to an internal memo signed by Converse CEO Aaron Cain.

Bauer most recently served as chief supply chain officer at Foot Locker for nearly three years before departing the company in April. Her appointment comes amid growing pressure on Nike’s leadership to address the prolonged sales slowdown affecting the company, with Converse representing one of Nike’s weakest performing segments. The brand has experienced 13 consecutive quarters of declining revenue, and recent trends suggest the downturn is intensifying.

In addition to Bauer’s hiring, Nike has also brought on James Ewing, a former Walmart executive, as chief commercial officer. Ewing, who spent nearly 14 years at Walmart and most recently served as interim CEO of Sam’s Club China, is expected to join Nike on September 7. She will oversee Nike’s global marketplace organization, including direct-to-consumer operations.

Nike CEO Elliott Hill highlighted Ewing's role as pivotal to accelerating growth across both Nike Direct and wholesale channels. These leadership changes are part of a broader initiative to reinvigorate Nike’s business under Hill’s direction following the extended slowdown in sales.

Together, the appointments of Bauer and Ewing reflect Nike’s commitment to strengthening its management team as it seeks to restore momentum across key brands and sales channels.