Nike has created a diversity roadmap that aims to reach 49.5% female employees across the enterprise, and to make the U.S. VP leadership consist of at least 29% racial and ethnic minorities, by 2025. The retailer will enforce the Purpose 2025 Targets program by tying diversity, as well as environmental and ethical goals, to executive compensation for the first time.
“As our society continues to reckon with systemic racial injustice, we are committed to standing up for one of Nike’s core values — equality,” said John Donahoe, President and CEO of Nike in a statement. “Our brand would not be what it is today without the powerful contributions of Black athletes and Black culture. And our belief in human potential inspires us to lead in addressing equality’s most persistent barriers. That’s why we’re taking meaningful action to support organizations focused on advancing racial equality in the U.S., including a combined $140 million commitment from Nike, Converse, Jordan Brand and Michael Jordan.”
Nike already has a head start on its sustainability goals thanks to several initiatives launched in the past year. Some of the highlights of its Supplier Climate Action Program, which aims to reduce the carbon footprint of the Nike supply chain, include:
- Using 100% renewable energy in the U.S. and Canada in Nike-owned or operated facilities;
- Reducing textile dyeing and finishing suppliers’ freshwater usage by 30%; and
- Helping Tier 1 finished goods footwear suppliers divert 99.9% of manufacturing waste from landfills.
The retailer also has made progress on its social responsibility goals. Nike worked with partners such as the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee to create a training module called Coaching Girls for volunteer youth coaches, which aims to help build a culture that makes sports fun and inclusive for girls. Additionally, more than 6,700 store associates in 29 countries volunteered more than 60,000 hours in fiscal 2020 to inspire kids to be active.
Advertisement
