Nike is "making its own business more inclusive of
women, not only as buyers, but also as employees," according
to Andy Dworkin of the Portland OREGONIAN, who wrote that
Nike has spent "years on diversity initiatives, including
recent efforts to advertise job openings to wider audiences,
set more objective hiring criteria and plan a support
network for female employees." But "when it comes to
employing female executives, progress can be tough and
slow." While 48% of Nike's 13,224-person work force is
female, at higher levels, the percentage is "even smaller
and the progress toward equality is slow." In the U.S.,
Nike employs about 450 people in its "two highest" exec
grades, and in 2000, 20% were female, up from 17% in fiscal
'97. Nike Dir of HR Curt Mudd said that in order to get
more female and minority applicants, Nike "has started using
more job search firms owned by women and minorities." Nike
is also posting jobs on "more women-focused Web sites."
Meanwhile, "many current and past employees give Nike good
marks for effort." Dworkin: "According to interviews with
many Nike employees, past and present, the company has
consistently made efforts to encourage a diverse work force
and promote women" (Portland OREGONIAN, 10/8).
HIRE -- AND PROMOTE -- TO WOMEN: In Chicago, Jim Kirk
reports that NikeTown Chicago, which "plans to unveil a new
sales floor dedicated to women" November 17, is "taking a
sample of its wares to women all over the city." Beginning
"sometime over the next week or so," Nike will send out a
35-foot mobile unit, a "veritable 'dressing room on wheels'
for consumers to try everything from footwear to accessories
and equipment" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 10/10).
