Disney has hired Nike veteran Ron Faris as the new senior vice president of global marketing for its merchandising division.

Faris joins Disney Consumer Products after previously working at Nike for nine years, where he was most recently global vice president and general manager of Nike Virtual Studios.

Nike Virtual Studio is one of Nike's most recent divisions dedicated to launching digital physical products and gaming experiences focused on engaging Gen Z audiences.

Faris joined the global giant in sports retail in 2016 and initially served as global vice president and general manager of Nike's SNRKS app.

In this role, he was tasked with leading Nike's first digital product, design, marketing and technology studio focused on innovating social and community interactions with young Millennials on mobile devices.

Faris also founded and was chief executive of apparel and fashion retail company Virgin Mega, which was acquired by Nike in August 2016.

In his new role, Faris will be responsible for overseeing global marketing strategies across regional and global licensing teams, as well as gaming, publishing and retail operations.

He will report to Disney Consumer Products president Tasia Filippatos, the company said.

The Disney Consumer Products division brings the Disney brands and franchises to life through various products and experiences, including licensing characters and stories to third-party producers, operating Disney Stores (both physical and online) and creating products available in Disney Parks. Products include toys and clothing to books and video games.

President of the division Filippatos said: “Ron’s impressive track record combined with his passion in this space make him the ideal candidate to lead our marketing teams around the world as we explore new opportunities to connect with our audiences in memorable and unexpected ways.”

Earlier this month, John Hoke, Nike's chief innovation officer (CIO), announced his retirement after more than 30 years at the sportswear giant.


Hoke joined Nike in 1992 as global creative director before being appointed vice president in 2010.

He was then promoted to chief design officer in 2017, leading a global team dedicated to providing innovation and sustainable solutions.

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