JD Sports appoints new North America CEO and group CMO
JD Sports has bolstered its leadership team with the appointment of John Mersho as chief executive of the JD fascia in North America, and Mike Grimes as chief marketing officer of JD Group.
Mersho joined the company as chief commercial officer for JD North America in 2025 and has taken up his new role following the retirement of John Hall after a four-decade career in retail. He is a member of the Mersho family, who founded Shoe Palace where he became chief executive in 2024. In his new position, he will focus on strengthening JD’s product proposition, enhancing the omnichannel experience, and expanding brand awareness and presence across North America.
Subscribe to TRBMeanwhile, Grimes has worked with JD North America for nearly twenty years, most recently in the position of chief marketing officer. As group chief marketing officer, he will lead the long-term direction of the JD brand globally and will also help strengthen the group’s customer proposition by harnessing the scale of its brands, own-brand portfolio, customer insights and global brand partnerships.
JD Group currently see a significant growth opportunity for JD in North America, its largest region. It accounted for 38% of group sales in FY26, with a fascia portfolio that includes JD, Hibbett, Shoe Palace, DTLR and Finish Line.
Régis Schultz, group chief executive of JD Sports, said: “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. I’m delighted to welcome them to their new roles and look forward to working closely with them.
“As John Hall retires, I’d like to share my sincere thanks for his remarkable contribution to JD. 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.”
