Ken Hicks, former CEO of Foot Locker and current head of Academy Sports + Outdoors, shares his journey of revitalizing Foot Locker during the recession. He reveals how storytelling transformed the brand's connection with customers beyond product-centric approaches. Hicks discusses his transition from military leadership to retail, the importance of adapting to consumer behavior, and creating unique in-store experiences. He emphasizes the value of securing exclusive partnerships, like those with Nike, as a strategic edge in an evolving market.

Ken Hicks, CEO of Foot Locker, shares how storytelling transformed the company during the recession. Transition from military to business, lessons from retail legends, leadership and empowerment, turning around distressed companies, differentiating Footlocker brands, and continuous learning and accountability.