Background and experience
Before her role at Jordan Brand North America, Harris was the vice president of strategy and development at Nike. Her impressive career also includes a nine-year tenure as a partner at Bain & Company, where she specialized in advising national companies on customer experience, digital marketing and transformation initiatives. Notably, she led Bain’s Social Impact and Diversity and Inclusion efforts, demonstrating her commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.
Harris holds degrees from prestigious institutions, including Yale University and Harvard University, underscoring her academic prowess and strategic thinking capabilities. Her extensive background in both the corporate and sports sectors positions her uniquely to drive the Pistons’ business operations forward.
Excitement from leadership
The Pistons’ owner, Tom Gores, expressed his enthusiasm about Harris joining the team.
“During this critical offseason, we have expanded our executive team with top leadership talent on both the basketball and business sides of our organization,” he said in a team statement, reported The Detroit News on Sept. 18. Gores emphasized that Harris’ experience and innovative approach would invigorate the Pistons’ business operations and enhance community engagement.
Vice-chairman Arn Tellem echoed Gores’ sentiments, highlighting Harris’s alignment with the team’s core values of hard work and community commitment.
“She’s a collaborative leader who will support our current team while bringing new experiences and ideas for engagement with business partners, ticket holders, and fans,” Tellem noted, according to DBusiness.
Harris’ vision for the Pistons
In her own statement, Harris expressed her excitement about the opportunity to contribute to the Pistons’ success.
“Detroit is a fantastic sports town, and as the organization grows, there is a great opportunity for building business momentum and engagement,” she stated, according to Detroit News. Her vision includes advancing the club’s success both on and off the court, indicating a holistic approach to leadership.
Community engagement and future goals
Harris’ appointment comes at a time when the Pistons are looking to strengthen their ties with the community and enhance their brand presence. Her previous involvement with Nike’s Black Community Taskforce reflects her dedication to social impact, which could translate into initiatives that resonate with the Pistons’ fan base.
