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It’s not every day a Dane earns a seat at the table of one of the world’s most iconic companies — but today, it’s happening at the very top.

Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, the former CEO of the LEGO Group from Denmark, has been appointed to the Board of Directors at NIKE, Inc. — a global powerhouse in sport, lifestyle, and innovation.

With this move, Knudstorp joins an elite group. Nike’s board includes the likes of Apple CEO Tim Cook, who serves as lead independent director. Co-founder and industry legend Phil Knight continues to play a key role as Chairman Emeritus. Another notable member is Thasunda Duckett, CEO of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA) and former top executive at JPMorgan Chase.

The announcement was made official in the U.S. today and is already making waves in the international business and branding communities.

Jørgen Vig Knudstorp served as CEO of the LEGO Group from 2004 to 2016, leading a remarkable turnaround and a period of strong global growth. He later took on the role of Executive Chair of the LEGO Brand Group until 2023 and currently serves as Vice Chair of the LEGO Foundation.

His deep experience with global brands, consumer products, and cultural leadership is among the key qualities Nike highlights.

“Jørgen’s strong global experience with brand and digital marketing, strategy, and consumer products — as well as his development and fostering of culture and values — will make him an excellent addition to our board,” said Mark Parker, Executive Chairman of NIKE, Inc. “We look forward to working with Jørgen during an exciting time for Nike, where we will unlock our next chapter of growth through innovative product and distinctive brand storytelling across an integrated marketplace.”

Before joining LEGO, Knudstorp worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company. He holds both a master’s degree and a PhD in economics and business management from Aarhus University.

He currently also serves on the board of another global giant, Starbucks Corporation, and is a partner at the investment firm Innovation Endeavors.

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