If this rumour is true and it happens it is laughable. Clown Out, underqualified Clown In.
Alisdhair McCartney's mate from London's creative scene. Job for the boys. The ship is sinking and they are hiring friends without the experience, credibility, or basic knowledge required to run a multidisciplinary innovation team at a brand that was once ranked as more innovative than BMW by BCG. The problem is not "ideas" it is about leading a complex sub-org within a much bigger more complex politicised org to deliver & implement innovation that sells in large quantities AND drives brand desire. Assuming topics like this would be covered in depth during the recruitment process. As a consultant fine, as a leader... bull-sh-t.
"Have you ever delivered desirable world class sports innovation into mass production at a multi-billion dollar organisation?" .... No?... don't worry not important.... we like your big ideas around robotic crochet of cruelty free kelp fibre.
Guess adidas will just continue to sit back and watch On Running & New Balance catch-up while Nike disappear into the horizon.