The Ultimate Fighting Championship on Friday announced the appointment of Garry Cook as its Executive Vice President and Managing Director for Europe, Middle East and Africa.
Cook, 50, has an impeccable track record of business success throughout his career. He joined Nike in 1996, rising to President and General Manager International of Brand Jordan in 2005. During his tenure at Nike he held a wide range of management positions from overseeing the licensing of Nike Team Sports in the US to leading the pan-European commercial strategy for Nike apparel EMEA.
After 12 successful years with Nike, Cook became Chief Executive of Manchester City Football Club and led the organization during a period that saw tremendous achievements both on and off the pitch. The club won both the FA Cup and Barclays Premier League, its first league championship for 44 years, and Cook was responsible for executing a global media and market development strategy resulting in unprecedented growth.
“Garry is a man with a fantastic record for high profile achievements in the sports industry with tremendous international experience,” said UFC president Dana White. “We are confident he will continue the huge developments the UFC has made internationally and lead us to further success.”
“I am absolutely delighted to be joining the UFC,” added Cook. “Mixed martial arts is one of the most popular sports globally and to be working in such a dynamic and exciting industry, with the UFC’s talented, passionate and committed staff and athletes, is an honor. I look forward to being a part of the team as they continue to grow internationally.”
