Sarah Mensah Becomes First Black Woman President of Jordan Brand
Just two years ago, Sarah Mensah became the first Black woman vice president at Nike North America, now Nike has promoted her to President of Jordan Brand. This makes another footnote in history as she becomes the first woman to serve in that role. As well as the first Black woman to become Jordan Brand president.
Last year, Footwear News reported that, before taking on the role of VP at Nike, she spent five years with Jordan Brand. In 2018, Mensah became the vice president of the brand’s Latin America and the Asia Pacific regions. In her last position, she oversaw Nike’s North America region.
She told the media outlet that when she was appointed VP, NIKE was showing its commitment to diversity and elevating women. “It’s important to me personally and to our athletes, our employees, our consumers. We talk a lot about listening to them, and the best way to listen is to reflect them,” Mensah said at the time. “I feel a tremendous amount of responsibility because Nike means so much to the Black community. To be the first Black woman leading this geography is an incredible mandate.”
Boardroom reported that Mensah will be taking the role at Jordan Brand from former Jordan Brand President Craig Williams. He is changing roles to become President of Geographies & Marketplace at Nike, Inc.
Years before Mensah made her mark at Jordan Brand and Nike, she worked in the NBA as VP and COO of the Portland Trailblazers from 2009 to 2012. During her time in that role, the Trailblazers’ revenue grew 105%.
She has been in the state of Oregon since prior to the start of her career. Mensah earned two degrees from the University of Oregon, before spending 19 years with the Portland Trailblazers. She worked her way up from corporate sales manager to executive vice president/chief operating officer.
The Nike headquarters is based in Oregon.
Sarah Mensah Becomes First Black Woman President of Jordan Brand