Lead Athlete at Nike in Jinan, China Mainland

About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes and everyday consumers through innovative products, storytelling, and a culture of excellence. With a presence in over 190 countries, Nike drives the future of sport in China, blending cutting-edge technology with iconic design. In Jinan, our retail stores embody the Just Do It spirit, creating immersive experiences where customers connect with performance gear that elevates their game. As a Nike Lead Athlete, you'll be at the heart of this mission, leading teams to deliver unforgettable brand moments.

Role Overview

The Lead Athlete position at Nike in Jinan is a pivotal retail leadership role designed for passionate individuals with retail expertise. Reporting to store management, you'll oversee team coordination, drive sales through expert customer service, and ensure seamless store operations. This full-time opportunity offers a platform to mentor emerging talent, master operational excellence, and foster deep customer loyalty to the Nike brand. Ideal for those with 4+ years in retail, it's a chance to advance in a high-energy environment where flexibility and physical readiness are key.

Key Responsibilities

As Lead Athlete, your impact will span people leadership, customer engagement, and operational mastery:

• Coordinate teams and workflows while supporting individual employee growth and development.
• Provide guidance on recruitment, disciplinary actions, performance evaluations, and recognition programs; mentor and train entry-level athletes.
• Leverage advanced customer service skills, sales techniques, and deep product knowledge to recommend the right Nike products and boost sales performance.
• Create lasting customer-brand connections by weaving Nike's compelling stories into every interaction and delivering elevated service.
• Manage complex transactions and service scenarios, execute all athlete duties, and specialize as an expert in areas like inventory management, cashier operations, or sales floor leadership.
• Assist managers in delivering onboarding and ongoing training programs to build a high-performing team.
• Proactively support loss prevention through vigilant customer service, reporting suspicious activities, and maintaining store security.
• Coordinate staff schedules under supervision and potentially manage store keys for operational efficiency.

Qualifications & Requirements

To thrive as a Nike Lead Athlete in Jinan, bring the following:

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• Minimum 4 years of relevant retail or customer-facing experience.
• Physical capability to perform job-related tasks, including standing for extended periods and handling merchandise.
• Availability for flexible retail scheduling, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Strong communication skills, leadership potential, and a passion for sports and the Nike brand.

No advanced degree required—your experience and drive will set you apart in this dynamic role.

Benefits & Perks

Nike invests in its athletes with competitive rewards:

• Estimated annual salary of 65,000 - 95,000 CNY, based on retail leadership benchmarks in China with upside potential.
• Generous employee discounts on Nike products, fueling your passion for sport.
• Ongoing training programs to sharpen skills and advance your career.
• Flexible scheduling to balance work and life in Jinan's vibrant scene.
• Health and wellness support, team-building events, and a collaborative culture.
• Opportunities for performance-based incentives and recognition.

Career Growth

Nike is committed to your progression. As Lead Athlete, you'll gain hands-on leadership experience, positioning you for roles like Store Manager or beyond. Our structured development paths include mentorship, cross-training, and access to Nike's global learning platforms. Many leaders started in retail—your journey could lead to district management, merchandising, or corporate opportunities across China and internationally.

Why Join Us

Work where innovation meets inspiration. In Jinan, Nike's store is more than retail—it's a hub for athletic achievement. Lead a team that powers customer dreams, surrounded by the latest Nike innovations. Enjoy a premium work culture emphasizing diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance. With Nike's growth in China, this role offers stability and excitement in one of the world's fastest-growing markets.

Role FAQs

What is the work schedule like?

Flexible retail hours, including weekends and evenings, to match store needs.

Is prior leadership experience required?

While not mandatory, 4+ years in retail with team coordination is ideal.

What salary can I expect?

Estimated 65,000 - 95,000 CNY yearly, competitive for Jinan retail leadership.

Are there advancement opportunities?

Yes, strong performers advance to management and beyond.

How does Nike support employee development?

Through training, mentorship, and performance feedback tailored to your growth.

Ready to lead at Nike? Apply now and elevate your career in Jinan.