Chairman of Jordan Brand
Larry Miller is the Chairman of the Jordan Brand Advisory Board, a division of Nike Inc. He has garnered international respect for his reputation of being an inspirational leader who understands how to build innovative, cultural, and premium businesses in the world of sport and lifestyle establishing the standard for athletic luxury footwear and apparel.
Miller was named President of the Jordan Brand for the second time on July 9, 2012. In his capacity as President, Miller is responsible for overseeing the operations of the $3 Billion sports performance and lifestyle brand while working closely with Nike Inc. global leadership and Michael Jordan to drive its business objectives globally.
Prior to joining the Jordan Brand in 2012, Miller served as President and Alternate Governor of the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. As President of the Trail Blazers, he was responsible for all aspects of the organization’s business and basketball activities, and the operation of the Rose Quarter facilities. Miller joined the Trail Blazers in June 2007 and under his guidance the team made three consecutive trips to the postseason while selling out 159 straight games. During the 2010-11 season, the franchise celebrated an 86% season ticket retention rate, and more than 11,000 full season tickets, placing the organization fifth in the NBA. Under Miller’s leadership, the Trail Blazers became the first American sports franchise to achieve Gold LEED status for an existing arena, earning the 2009 PRISM award.
Miller originally joined the Nike team in 1997 as Vice President of the U.S. Apparel division. He then served as Vice President and General Manager of Nike Basketball, where he was responsible for developing and executing strategies that centered on the Jordan Brand, Nike Basketball and Converse. He then became President of the Jordan Brand for the first time from 1999-2006, as Miller led the brand through a period of strong growth as it expanded such product offerings as Women’s apparel and grew its portfolio of Team Jordan athletes.
Before joining Nike, Miller served as President for Jantzen, Inc. He also served as a Manager for Kraft General Foods, Assistant Controller at Philadelphia Newspapers, Inc., and held various positions with Campbell Soup molding his background as one of the most influential corporate leaders in an evolving lifestyle industry.
Miller makes Portland his home, and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Self Enhancement Inc. (“SEI”), the Oregon Business Council, and Oregon Sports Authority, and is a member of the Portland Mayor’s Economic Development Cabinet. He is a passionate advocate for education and mentorship and was previously involved with the Urban League and Junior Achievement.
Miller earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Temple University in 1982, and a master’s degree in business from LaSalle University in 1985. He graduated from the Urban League Leadership Institute in 1987.
His memoir, JUMP: My Secret Journey from the Streets to the Boardroom was published by William Morrow/ Harper Collins. Co-authored with his daughter Laila Lacy, JUMP details Miller's ascent from the streets of West Philadelphia to some of the highest distinctions of the corporate world.
In this inspiring conversation, Larry Miller details his unconventional path from gang member to one of the most successful Black businessmen in America. This redemption story not only highlights the importance of giving second chances but also provides a guide for finding a path forward no matter what negative circumstances you encounter. Larry's story also provides a passionate appeal for criminal justice reform, expanded educational opportunities, and mental health awareness.