Did you know? In addition to being the CEO of Apple, Tim Cook is also on the board of directors of Nike. Cook is even the longest-serving member of this board, having served there since 2005, when he was still COO of Apple (Steve Jobs’ right-hand man). And recently, Bloomberg published an article on the role that the Apple boss plays in the management of Nike. In essence, Tim Cook would not limit himself to a simple observer role. For example, this year, when Nike is going through a difficult period, Cook reportedly helped Elliott Hill become the brand’s new CEO. He had also supported John Donahoe, the elder who was replaced.
Tim Cook very close to Nike
Citing sources close to the matter, Bloomberg explains that as lead independent director at Nike, Tim Cook would be the most influential external advisor within the brand. The article also describes the Apple boss as a “sounding board” on subjects like China, technology (subjects on which the experience acquired within Apple is useful). Some agency sources even indicate that Tim Cook would sometimes give suggestions on the design of Nike stores, or on strategy. In particular, this would encourage Nike to focus on flagship products, instead of saturating the market, exactly like Apple.
Nike and Apple: two very close companies
It should also be noted that the relationship between Apple and Nike has always been special. In 2006, the two companies collaborated on a device that allowed pairs of Nikes equipped with sensors to communicate information about the user’s physical activity to the iPod. Nike and Apple are also collaborating on straps for the Apple Watch. And recently, in May 2024, Tim Cook wore a very special pair of Nikes during the keynote presentation of his new iPads. This was a pair designed for Tim Cook, using the iPad Pro and Pencil Pro. Bloomberg also notes that at this time, in addition to thinking about the new iPads, Tim Cook should probably also think about the difficult period going through Nike.
- Tim Cook is CEO of Apple, but also a member of the board of directors of Nike
- This would not only have an observer role, but would for example be involved in the appointment of the new CEO of Nike
- Cook would even give suggestions on subjects such as store design or the strategy to adopt.
- It should also be noted that Apple and Nike have already collaborated on numerous occasions (even before the release of the iPhone)