Nike has confirmed Kristin Bauer as chief operating officer of Converse, putting a veteran supply chain executive in a key role as the sneaker brand struggles through one of the deepest downturns in its history. A Nike spokesperson confirmed the appointment on Saturday. Bauer will begin on Sept. 14.
The hire arrives as Nike faces mounting pressure to revive Converse, whose revenue declined 32 percent in the company’s most recently reported quarter. The performance prompted renewed questions about the brand’s long-term trajectory, with GlobalData Managing Director Neil Saunders arguing that Nike should consider an exit strategy if it lacks the resources or commitment to execute a turnaround.
Bauer will report directly to Nike Chief Operating Officer Venky Alagirisamy, according to an internal memo signed by Converse CEO Aaron Cain and first reported by Bloomberg. She joins Converse after nearly three years as chief supply chain officer at Foot Locker, the footwear retailer being acquired by Dick’s Sporting Goods. Earlier in her career, Bauer held supply chain and logistics leadership roles at TJX Cos. and Ulta Beauty.
Founded in 1908 and owned by Nike since 2003, Converse remains one of the most recognizable names in footwear. But the brand has struggled to maintain momentum as sneaker demand has shifted toward newer silhouettes, performance-inspired product categories and faster-moving trend cycles. For Nike, Bauer’s arrival represents another step in a broader effort to restore growth across its brand portfolio while proving that Converse still has a place in the company’s long-term strategy.
