Christian Shepperd landed a Nike job after graduating from Oklahoma University's Price College of Business MBA
Christian Shepperd is an allocation planner at Nike. Here’s what it’s like working for Nike, what the company is looking for, and how an MBA helped him land his Nike job
Christian Shepperd has had a passion for sports since high school, so his current role with Nike is a perfect fit.
After graduating from the full-time MBA program at the University of Oklahoma’s Price College of Business, he secured a Nike job as apparel allocation planner for women's wear. Without the MBA, he says, he might not have been ready for the role.
Christian started his career with a bachelor’s in Business Administration at the University of Arizona, where he held part-time jobs with the school’s athletics department, first in marketing, then in management for the Women’s Basketball team.
After graduating, he decided to jump straight into an MBA to get his career off to the best possible start. During the summer between first and second year, he managed to not only land an internship with Nike in the company’s supply management department, but also turn it into a full-time role.
BusinessBecause caught up with Christian to find out more about what it’s like to work at Nike, and what qualities MBAs need to launch a career at the sportswear giant.
Why did you want to work for Nike?
Nike presented an amazing opportunity to enter the corporate world and stay heavily involved in the sports industry.
The other leading factor was the exposure I would gain to global operations, and the type of leadership it takes to maintain a brand like Nike—along with its cutting edge, forward thinking approach. These experiences will be invaluable to my future career.
How did the MBA job come about?
The full-time job came about from the summer internship I took during my MBA program.
Without the MBA I’m not sure I would have gotten the job. I had no prior job experience since I went straight to grad school, so my MBA was a selling point representing my ambition, and a way to distinguish myself from others.
What was the application process like for Nike?
The interview process was all during my internship. I had no interviews after the internship once they were deciding who to offer full-time jobs.
The entire application process took about three to four months. I had four rounds of interviews with four different people—an HR rep, then three hiring managers. These interviews typically lasted 30-45 minutes and were all over the phone.
The questions were almost entirely behavioral focused, with a handful of questions on ‘why Nike?’
What does Nike look for in its job applicants?
Nike is looking for people who are truly passionate about the brand. That’s why they focus on the ‘why Nike’ questions in the interview.
Leadership, teamwork, and communication are important as well. Nike would love for you to have some hard skills, and do require them when applicable, but more than anything Nike is looking for people that have pushed themselves to be better in those three characteristics above.
I believe I got the job because I was able to effectively communicate how I have worked to develop those skills over my life, but also how I see Nike helping me continue that growth.
Tell us one thing about working at Nike that most people wouldn’t know
From day one, a huge emphasis has been placed on career growth.
Nike isn’t interested in you sitting in one place for five years and not growing. Nike wants and encourages every employee to share their holistic career goals within and outside of Nike, and communicate those goals with co-workers and managers.
They expect everyone to help each other drive toward their personal goals—they truly want you to grow and reach for what you want.
University of Oklahoma - Price College of Business
Percy
Verified
28/11/2023
On Campus
an Unregrettable choice of university
The University of Oklahoma has been a great experience for me. The professors are all very knowledgeable and willing to help where needed. The campus is also very beautiful and there are plenty of activities going on all the time. The student body is also really friendly and I have made a lot of new friends here. Overall, I'm really glad I chose OU and would recommend it to anyone looking for a great college experience.
Student
Verified
9/11/2022
On Campus
It is a life changing experience for me.
I am enrolled in a Ph.D. program that is research-intensive. I get continuous guidance from my supervisors that help me to conduct my research skillfully. I will gladly recommend students to study here.
Student
Verified
20/10/2022
Online
Good institution
Good institution for in class courses. Online classes are pretty hard because the instructors are most of the time not available. The student has to do everything on their own without any assistance.
Student
Verified
11/06/2022
Blended
Best school ever
This has been the best experience. of my life! Freshman year completely changed my life in so many ways! Through club’s organizations and social events the university of Oklahoma became my home. I loved being there
Student
Verified
25/04/2019
Amazing Univeristy
OU is an amazing university. Love the athletic department so much. They have so much hype and love for their athletes and students typically maintain a healthy lifestyle. I’m engineering student and OU has one of the best teachers and facilities I had so far. I know their engineering program is prestigious but I don’t know much about the other departments. Beautiful campus and amazing social events. Diversity is enormous. LOVE IT SIMPLY.
Molly
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19/12/2023
On Campus
Getting the best at OU
I am a current student at the University of Oklahoma and I must say, I am extremely impressed with the quality of education and resources available here. The professors are knowledgeable and truly care about their students' success. The campus is beautiful and there are always events and activities happening. The community at OU is welcoming and diverse, making it a great place to grow and learn. I highly recommend this university to anyone looking for a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience. Boomer Sooner
Student
Verified
28/11/2023
On Campus
Everybody is really helpful over here
The university has beautiful buildings and scenic fields with benches for enjoying the weather. There are a lot of nice students, so it's a pleasant experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the classes and gained valuable knowledge from the professors. It was a pleasure to work with my professors during my first year, as communication was easy and they consistently made themselves available during office hours, accommodating any scheduling conflicts. I had a smooth academic transition into college thanks to the great faculty.
Sara
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9/01/2023
On Campus
Oklahoma
I would say it is the best university in town. The education, knowledge, curriculum, extra curriculum activities, modern laboratories, big grounds, and spacious classrooms. I would say everyone who can should study here.
Quincy
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30/06/2024
On Campus
well maintained facilities
The OU campus is truly breathtaking with its vast green spaces and modern facilities. These facilities are contemporary and meticulously maintained, housing state-of-the-art science labs, a vast digital resource library, and cozy study areas perfect for late-night cram sessions. As someone from Oklahoma, attending this university has been a dream come true and has provided me with the most fulfilling years of my life. My freshman year was incredibly enjoyable, filled with fantastic friends and daily adventures. The friendships I've established here are lifelong, and I feel immense gratitude for my time at OU.
Charlie
Verified
30/06/2024
On Campus
a home far from home
Attending the University of Oklahoma brought back nostalgic memories for me. My sister graduated from this university in May 2019, and while she had spoken highly of it, she hadn't quite captured how much I would come to adore this school. It has become a home away from home, with its welcoming atmosphere, kind professors, stunning campus, and impressive football team that resonates with my high school football experiences. I am grateful for the chance to study at the University of Oklahoma and receive an exceptional education.
Lauren
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5/07/2024
On Campus
psychology major
Honestly, I was not expecting to enjoy the University of Oklahoma (OU), but I ended up falling in love with it. Your college experience at OU largely depends on what you invest in it. While it was sometimes challenging to build friendships and step out of my comfort zone, the university offers numerous clubs and opportunities to engage with new people. As a psychology major at the University of Oklahoma, I firmly believe that the professors and the quality of education surpass those of any other university psychology program. This enables students to connect with professionals globally and fosters personal growth. In terms of academics, I find that professors are highly accessible to students, and there are abundant resources available to support academic achievement.
Catherine
Verified
6/07/2024
Blended
great support
The campus offers a wide range of dining choices and excellent accommodation. It is reasonably affordable and offers support in locating scholarships and financial advisors to help students manage their finances. My overall experience has been far more positive than I anticipated, and I am completely satisfied with my decision to enroll at OU.
Student
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21/07/2024
On Campus
Beautiful campus scene
The University of Oklahoma has such a large and diverse population that you can't help but find your place here. There are many colleges, courses, and professors to choose from. I grew to love the environment, social life and community. The school has an amazing and breathtaking campus with many clubs and ways to get connected.
Rachel
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21/07/2024
On Campus
architecture program
I have been able to explore a wide variety of academic subjects during my studies. The university's dedicated faculty members have been crucial in fostering my intellectual development and providing guidance. I have always felt supported by the staff and my professors, especially in the field of architecture. My experience so far has been a positive journey.
Student
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24/07/2024
On Campus
passion for literature
The University of Oklahoma created a fantastic educational setting that blends a passion for classical works with modern research. As a student at the university, I observed a diverse array of opportunities available not only to myself but also to other postgraduate students. I appreciate the variety of campus events and the vibrant nightlife.
