ABOUT

Wade L. Ray currently works as a Global Product Line Manager for Nike, Inc. at World Headquarters. He graduated from Stanford University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Biology with a focus on the Neurobiology of Human Behavior and Performance.

Wade strives to create meaningful product driven from sharp consumer insights and marketplace trends. By building strong cross-functional relationships and remaining connected to the community, he helped establish the product creation engine in a territory as the first footwear PLM in NYC. Wade and his incredibly talented team serve the needs of the consumer in the North America Geo through hyperlocal product with rich storytelling. He also worked directly with one of the largest footwear retailers in North America as well as explore new methods of product creation with Digital partners. Wade now manages some of Nike’s most iconic and biggest revenue driving footwear franchises on a Global scale, using macro and micro insights and global trends to create compelling product stories for consumers around the world.

Wade's main goal is to amplify the voice of the consumer through product that captures the culture and represents communities with the right level of expression and emotion. He’s committed to creating product that meets the consumer where they are at and he truly values his role as a “storyteller”.

Wade has been entertaining since his youth, and it continues to be one of his strongest passions. Wade was an active member of the Arts programs at Stanford and was rewarded the Black Arts Award for excellence and achievement in the Performing Arts. Before joining Nike, Wade pursued the performing arts full-time. He has performed on all stages - large and small - throughout New York City. He has also had opportunities on the Silver Screen and in VoiceOver, booking national radio campaigns with major brands.

Wade brings his passion to his profession through opportunities to emcee and host major marketplace activations with Professional Athletes and Celebrities including: Serena Williams, John McEnroe, Victor Cruz, Tinker Hatfield, Larry Fitzgerald, Kevin Hart, Spike Lee, DJ Clark Kent, Ronnie Fieg, and Nygel Sylvester amongst others.

Wade is a Pop Culture guru, fashion forward, a trivia buff (his friends call him "Snapple Fact") , and he covets his "artistic yet analytical" duality of thought. Wade continues to explore new ways to connect with and keep a strong pulse on the culture, grow mentally, physically, and professionally, and always put the consumer first.