Robert Jay Strasser (5 October 1947 – 15 October 1993)[1] was a pioneering figure in the sports apparel industry, playing instrumental roles at Nike and Adidas. He was notably involved in the launch of the Air Jordan line at Nike and later helped rejuvenate Adidas as a significant competitor.[2]
Rob Strasser | |
|---|---|
| Born | October 5, 1947 |
| Died | October 15, 1993 (aged 46) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation(s) | Marketing and Management |
| Known for | Leadership at Nike and Adidas |
Career
editEarly career
editStrasser was a graduate of Willamette University in Salem and the UC Berkeley School of Law.[1] He started his career as a lawyer in Portland, Oregon, where he represented Nike (under its original name, Blue Ribbon Sports) and drew the attention of its founder Phil Knight.[2][3]
Nike
editStrasser joined Nike during its early years. His audacious and unconventional style was critical in shaping Nike's trajectory, most notably in the launch of the Air Jordan line. Strasser led Nike's strategic war against Adidas, Nike's key rival, and was instrumental in Nike's charge into European markets.[2][3]
In 1987, Strasser left Nike due to ideological differences with Phil Knight and partnered with Peter Moore in a consulting firm, Sports Inc.[2]
Adidas
editStrasser's career took an unexpected turn when he was recruited by Adidas, the company he had once helped Nike to defeat. Tasked with rejuvenating the struggling brand, Strasser and Moore relocated Adidas's North American headquarters to Portland. Their strategy focused on reducing the brand to its iconic core, a move that resonated with consumers.[1][2]
Legacy
editDespite Strasser's complicated relationships with both Nike and Adidas, his influence on Portland's economy and culture remains indisputable. His loyalty to the city helped shape Portland into a major player in the sportswear industry.[2][3]
Strasser was portrayed by Jason Bateman in the 2023 movie Air.[3]
References
edit- ^ a b c "Nike Exec Who Joined Adidas Dies at 46". AP NEWS. 31 Oct 1993. Retrieved 29 May 2023.
- ^ a b c d e f David Wolman (13 June 2016). "Meet the Man Who Reinvented Nike, Seduced Adidas, and Helped Make PDX the Sports Gear Capital of the World". Portland Monthly. Retrieved 29 May 2023.
- ^ a b c d Mark Zusman (8 April 2023). "The Man Who Saved Nike". Willamette Week. Retrieved 29 May 2023.
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