Dirk-Jan “DJ” van Hameren

Even for an iconic brand like Nike, it’s not easy to capture the world’s attention. But under Hameren’s leadership, Nike celebrated 30 years of its “Just do it” tagline, kicking off the anniversary in a bold way with its “Dream Crazy” campaign featuring former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

Created by Wieden + Kennedy Portland, Ore., the ad featured Kaepernick telling viewers to “believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything.” Despite criticism, the campaign won two Grand Prix at the 2019 Cannes Lions and added a reported $6 billion in brand value. —Ann-Marie Alcántara