Nike has named a new business leader for Hurley.
Nike executive Bob Coombes is moving into the VP/GM of Hurley role, replacing Anton Nistl, who is taking a new job at Nike.
While VP/GM is the title Nike uses for the industry, Hurley often uses the president designation for that role.
Coombes most recently served as VP/GM of Nike India, giving him valuable experience working with Nike corporate headquarters from afar, which is similar to how Costa Mesa-based Hurley interacts with Nike.
Some on the Hurley team also know Coombes from his time in Southern California, where he was VP/GM for Nike in the West and Los Angeles region.
Anton, who is very close to former Hurley CEO and former top Nike executive Roger Wyett, will become VP, Special Projects, Integrated Marketplace Development at Converse.
Anton joined Hurley three years ago, having previously served as Americas President of DC shoes. Nike has a history of moving its executives around the company to develop talent.
In an interview, Bob Hurley said he is excited about Coombes joining the team, and described him as a “wonderful human being.”
Bob said he is also thankful for Anton’s contribution to Hurley.
In the most recent quarter, Hurley had its highest revenue and profits ever, with the lowest inventory and best sell-through, Bob said.
“It’s a little bittersweet but I am happy for Anton to move into an elevated role at Nike,” he said.
Coombes, who is an open ocean swimmer, will report to Jayme Martin, VP/GM Global Categories.
