Lead Athlete at Nike in Dalian, China Mainland

About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes and everyday consumers through innovative products, cutting-edge technology, and inspirational storytelling. Founded in 1964, Nike has grown into a global powerhouse with a presence in over 190 countries. In China, Nike operates hundreds of retail stores, serving millions of customers passionate about sports, fitness, and performance apparel. As a Nike employee, you join a culture of innovation, diversity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Our Dalian store is a hub for premium retail experiences, where Lead Athletes play a pivotal role in bringing the Nike brand to life.

Role Overview

The Lead Athlete position at Nike in Dalian, China Mainland, is a leadership role within our dynamic retail environment. This full-time opportunity is ideal for experienced retail professionals who excel in customer service, team management, and sales. As a Lead Athlete, you will guide teams, elevate customer experiences, and contribute to store operations while embodying Nike's commitment to athletic excellence. With an estimated salary range of 65,000 to 95,000 CNY annually, this role offers competitive compensation in line with China's retail and tech sector standards, plus growth potential in a premium brand.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Athletes at Nike shoulder critical duties that blend leadership, sales mastery, and operational expertise. Your day-to-day impact includes:

• Coordinating team efforts and fostering employee development through recruitment advice, performance evaluations, disciplinary guidance, and recognition programs.
• Applying advanced customer service skills, sales techniques, and deep product knowledge to recommend the right Nike gear and drive revenue.
• Creating lasting customer-brand connections by weaving Nike's compelling stories into every interaction, delivering the highest level of service.
• Handling complex transactions and customer scenarios while proficiently managing all store operations and executing core Athlete responsibilities.
• Serving as a go-to expert in key areas such as inventory control, cash management, or sales floor leadership, with ongoing learning through Nike's training programs.
• Supporting store managers in delivering formal onboarding and ongoing staff training to build a high-performing team.
• Proactively assisting with customer service to prevent losses, staying vigilant against shoplifting or internal theft, and reporting issues promptly.
• Assisting supervisors in scheduling and coordinating staff, potentially managing store keys for operational efficiency.

Qualifications & Requirements

To thrive as a Lead Athlete at Nike Dalian, candidates should possess:

• Proven experience in retail sales, customer service, and team leadership.
• Exceptional communication skills to inspire teams and engage customers.
• Strong understanding of sports apparel, footwear, and Nike's product ecosystem.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced retail setting, handling operations from sales to inventory.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and adaptability to training.

No formal education is specified, but prior retail leadership experience in China’s competitive market is highly valued. Fluency in Mandarin is essential, with English as a plus for global brand interactions.

Benefits & Perks

Nike invests in its people with industry-leading benefits tailored for China-based employees:

• Competitive base salary estimated at 65,000-95,000 CNY yearly, with bonuses tied to store performance.
• Generous employee discounts on Nike products, allowing you to gear up at preferential rates.
• Comprehensive training programs, including leadership development and product expertise workshops.
• Health insurance, paid time off, and wellness initiatives supporting work-life balance.
• Access to Nike's global career portal for internal mobility across Asia-Pacific stores and corporate roles.
• Team-building events and a collaborative culture that celebrates athletic achievements.

Career Growth

Nike is committed to your professional journey. Starting as a Lead Athlete opens doors to roles like Store Manager, Regional Trainer, or even corporate positions in merchandising and operations. Our structured development paths, mentorship programs, and performance-based promotions have propelled thousands of retail stars to leadership. In Dalian, you'll gain exposure to high-volume retail dynamics, preparing you for expansion across China's booming sports market.

Why Join Us

Choosing Nike means aligning with a brand that defines innovation and inspiration. In Dalian, you'll work in a vibrant store serving a passionate community of athletes. Enjoy the prestige of Nike on your resume, the thrill of driving sales in premium retail, and the satisfaction of building teams that deliver iconic experiences. Nike's values—compete at the highest level, innovate relentlessly, and act with integrity—resonate in every shift. Join us to not just work, but to inspire movement worldwide.

Role FAQs

What is the work schedule for a Lead Athlete?

Full-time role with shifts including weekends and holidays, typical for retail in China. Flexible scheduling supports work-life balance.

Is prior Nike experience required?

No, but retail leadership experience and passion for sports brands are key.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated 65,000-95,000 CNY annually, based on market rates with upside potential.

Are there relocation benefits?

Local hires preferred; inquire during application for specifics.

How does Nike support career advancement?

Through targeted training, performance reviews, and global opportunities.