Key Takeaways
- Matthew Barnes will serve as President of Foot Locker International starting December 3, 2025, overseeing operations across Europe, Asia, and Australia
- DICK’S Sporting Goods acquired Foot Locker in September 2025, with Executive Chairman Ed Stack leading the business unit
- Barnes brings nearly 30 years of global retail leadership experience, including executive roles at Aldi Süd and Tesco
- Former longtime Nike executive Ann Freeman leads Foot Locker North America, rounding out the post-acquisition leadership team
A New Chapter for Foot Locker Under DICK’S Ownership
DICK’S Sporting Goods has appointed Matthew Barnes as President of Foot Locker International, effective December 3, 2025. The hire marks another step in building out Foot Locker’s leadership team following DICK’S acquisition of the sneaker retailer in September 2025.
Barnes will oversee Foot Locker’s stores, eCommerce, and digital businesses across Europe, Asia, and Australia. His responsibilities also include the company’s licensed store presence throughout Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. He will report directly to Ed Stack, DICK’S Executive Chairman, who leads the Foot Locker business.
Barnes Brings Global Retail Experience to the Role
Barnes arrives with nearly three decades of leadership experience spanning the United Kingdom, Europe, the United States, China, and Australia. His career began at Aldi, where he started as an Area Manager and rose through the ranks to become Group CEO and Member of the International Executive Board of Aldi Süd. He also served as UK Chief Executive Officer at Tesco.
“Matthew’s proven tenure working with prominent global brands to transform and grow their businesses makes him the ideal leader to elevate Foot Locker’s international platform,” said Stack in the announcement.
Lauren Hobart, President and CEO of DICK’S, emphasized Barnes’ familiarity with Foot Locker’s international markets. “His expertise will be invaluable in strengthening our ability to deliver growth and generate value for our customers, brand partners, team members and shareholders,” Hobart said.
Building the Post-Acquisition Leadership Team
The appointment positions Barnes alongside Ann Freeman, a longtime former Nike executive who leads Foot Locker North America. Together, the two executives represent the core leadership structure DICK’S is establishing for the Foot Locker business.
Barnes expressed enthusiasm about joining during what he called “a pivotal and exciting time for the sports retail industry.” He noted his personal passion for sports and stated he looks forward to working with the leadership team and Foot Locker employees to bring “innovative experiences and exciting new products to consumers worldwide.”
What This Means for Youth Sports Retail
For youth sports organizations and families, the DICK’S and Foot Locker combination creates one of the largest sports retail footprints globally. Foot Locker’s strength in athletic footwear complements DICK’S equipment and apparel offerings. How the combined company serves youth athletes, from entry-level participants to elite competitors, will be worth watching as the integration continues.
Barnes holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors in law and politics from the University of Liverpool.
via: ESQ News
Photo: LinkedIn
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