Stanford late Thursday named former Nike CEO John Donahoe its next athletic director, a seemingly unlikely hire, but one the university said is a perfect fit given the ongoing turmoil in college sports. The move also further cements the university’s ties with Nike co-founder Phil Knight, a Stanford alumnus and a major donor.

Stanford has hired former Nike CEO John Donahoe as its new athletic director, marking a shift from a more traditional hire to one with extensive business experience rather than just a typical sports administration background.

Former Nike CEO John Donahoe will take over as the athletic director at Stanford, where he earned his graduate degree. His first day on the job will be Sept. 8. Donahoe, 65, comes to the position with decades of management experience.