Dick’s Finalizes Foot Locker’s Leadership: Matthew Barnes Named International President

Foot Locker completes its top management. The American sportswear giant, owned by Dick’s since last May, has appointed Matthew Barnes as the company’s new president for Europe, Asia and Australia, in parallel to Ann Freeman, a former Nike executive, who has been in charge of the U.S. business since last September, following the group’s acquisition.

Barnes’ appointment is effective December 3rd, 2025. He will oversee retail, online and digital businesses in Europe, Asia and Australia, as well as the brand’s presence in licensed stores in Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Matthew Barnes, who holds a degree in law and political science from the University of Liverpool, has more than thirty years of experience in markets such as the United Kingdom, Europe, the United States, China and Australia, where he has operated brands such as Aldi supermarket chains, serving as the company’s chief executive officer.

Dick’s completes Foot Locker presidencies globally

According to the company in a statement, the executive “will lead the group’s international operations with a focus on driving strategic growth, accelerating commercial momentum and executing targeted turnaround strategies.“ Barnes will report directly to Ed Stack, CEO of Dick’s, which acquired Foot Locker last May in a €2.4 billion deal.

Dick’s completes, with this appointment, Foot Locker’s global presidencies. In addition to these, the company made seven other appointments to key positions in the North American business.

With this corporate transaction, Dick’s is in the process of expanding its business beyond the U.S. market, while Foot Locker has succeeded in alleviating its unstable financial situation.