• Director, Partnerships and Governance, Innovation

    Nike (Beaverton, OR)


    WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH

     

    You’ll join the Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL), a multidisciplinary team driving innovation through science to make athletes* measurably better. This role reports to the Athlete Experience Research Operations (AERO) team, collaborating with researchers, engineers, product teams, and external partners to enable research and deliver strategic priorities.

    WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

    We’re seeking a visionary leader with a proven ability to inspire and guide teams toward impactful results. This individual thrives in complex, matrixed environments, balancing internal and external partnerships to deliver sophisticated solutions. They bring deep knowledge of research, innovation, and business connectivity, coupled with exceptional communication and organizational skills. The ideal candidate demonstrates expertise in building strategies, fostering collaboration, and ensuring compliance with industry best practices.

    Key Qualifications:

    + Open to work in **Beaverton, OR**

    + Master’s degree in human movement science (biomechanics, physiology, kinesiology), engineering, sports management, business, or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience, and training

    + 7+ years of relevant work experience

    + 4+ years in a management and/or leadership role

    + Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and maintain strategic partnerships across industries

    WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON

    You’ll shape and execute short- and near-term strategies for the AERO team, driving operational excellence and enabling research capabilities. Your work will influence Nike’s innovation pipeline and athlete experience.

    Core Responsibilities:

    + Partner with NSRL scientists, product research teams, data scientists, engineers, and external partners

    + Define operational plans, program scope, and deliverables for complex research initiatives

    + Align and prioritize work streams across Nike’s matrix to meet timelines and dependencies

    + Enable day-to-day operations and ensure project deliverables for lab teams

    + Communicate program status, risks, and opportunities to leadership and stakeholders

    + Develop and manage team performance, fostering growth and accountability

     

    We offer a number of accommodations to complete our interview process including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single location for in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed. If you discover, as you navigate our application process, that you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please complete the Candidate Accommodation Request Form (https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/5153e46a93f4460db48eb9e611386685) .

     

    NIKE, Inc. is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, or disability. NIKE is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please call +1 503-671-4156 and let us know the nature of your request, your location and your contact information.