Companies

JD Sports strengthens leadership team

Sep 18, 2026 United Kingdom

The UK-based sportswear retailer has appointed John Mersho as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the JD fascia in North America and Mike Grimes as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of the group

John Mersho, who has served as Chief Commercial Officer of JD North America since 2025, has been appointed to the new role following John Hall’s retirement after four decades in retail. A member of the family that founded Shoe Palace in 1993, Mersho became the company’s CEO in 2024.

John will now focus on strengthening JD’s product offering, improving the omnichannel customer experience and increasing brand awareness and presence across North America. His appointment comes at a time when the company’s sales have been affected by weaker consumer confidence, a slower quarter for high-heat footwear products and deferred ‘back-to-school’ demand.

Mike Grimes has also been appointed Chief Marketing Officer of the JD Group. He has worked with JD North America for nearly two decades, most recently serving as CMO of the North American business.

In his new role, he will oversee the long-term direction of the JD brand globally and be responsible for maintaining consistency across markets while supporting local strategies. He will also contribute to the group’s customer proposition, own-brand portfolio, customer insights, and global brand partnerships.

“These appointments represent an important step in the next phase of JD’s growth. John and Mike are outstanding leaders – both well-tenured within our business, bringing extensive experience and deep knowledge of the markets we operate in. Together, they will play a critical role in delivering against our strategy, enhancing the experience of our customers, and driving sustainable growth across JD”, commented Régis Schultz, Group CEO of JD Sports Fashion.

Schultz also thanked John Hall “for his remarkable contribution” to the company. “Having begun his career on the shop floor at Nordstrom, John played a key role in the evolution of our North American business, culminating in his appointment as CEO in 2023. On behalf of all at JD, I wish him all the best in his retirement”, he added.

Image Credits: modaes.com

North America United Kingdom Companies JD Sports Management Sportswear