#United States #Academy Sports #Katy #Michael Dastugue #Shannon Hennessy

Academy Sports + Outdoors Announces New Board Appointments

In a recent announcement from Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc., significant developments within the company's governance structure were revealed. Michael Dastugue, Shannon Hennessy, and Clay Johnson have been officially appointed as new members of the Board of Directors effective December 1, 2025. This strategic move is aimed at furthering the company's Long Range Plan and enhancing its operational capabilities.

Strengthening Leadership with Industry Veterans

Michael Dastugue, with over 30 years of experience in accounting, finance, real estate, and retail operations, brings a wealth of knowledge to the board. Recently, he served as the Chief Financial Officer for Hanesbrands, Inc., managing financial strategies and operations. Prior to that, his impressive career includes tenure as Chief Financial Officer for Walmart US and Sam's Club, where he honed his skills in managing complex financial environments. Mr. Dastugue's extensive background will be pivotal as Academy looks to enhance its financial acumen in line with its growth trajectory.

Shannon Hennessy is another critical addition to the new board. With 25 years of experience in various leadership roles across restaurant management and consulting, she has a proven track record in areas such as digital growth, financial planning, and operational strategy. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Habit Burger Grill, her past experiences also include tenure as the Global Chief Financial Officer for KFC. Hennessy's insight into consumer-facing industries will help Academy adapt to market demands effectively.

Completing the trio, Clay Johnson brings over 25 years of expertise in digital transformation and strategic planning to Academy’s board. Having most recently served as the Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Yum! Brands, Johnson has a history of leading cybersecurity and global operations initiatives. His diverse background also includes significant roles at Walmart and Boeing, offering insights into tech-driven business strategies.

A Vision for Continued Growth

The Chairman of the Board, Ken Hicks, expressed enthusiasm for the new appointees. He stated, “We are excited to welcome Michael, Shannon, and Clay to our Board. As we continuously evaluate the skills represented on our board, it’s paramount we have leaders who are not only experts in their respective fields but also passionate about our mission of helping families enjoy outdoor activities.” This sentiment reflects Academy's commitment to enhancing its leadership structure as it aims for a brighter future.

The addition of these experienced professionals aligns closely with Academy Sports + Outdoors' ongoing focus on digital transformation and growth strategies, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and real estate. By strengthening its leadership team, Academy seeks to leverage current opportunities within the market to execute its future plans effectively.

Reflecting on Academy’s Journey

Since its inception in 1938, Academy Sports + Outdoors has grown from a family-owned business into a leading full-line sporting goods and outdoor recreation retailer in the United States. Operating over 300 stores across 21 states, Academy focuses on offering a wide range of products that cater to the outdoor and sporting needs of its consumers.

As Academy moves forward, the board will continue to guide the company through the evolving landscape of retail and outdoor recreation, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry.

For more information on Academy Sports + Outdoors and their latest initiatives, visit Academy.com.