As one of a very small percentage of female Fortune 500 CEOs, Lauren Hobart takes her job seriously. Not only her job to support, build, and move a company forward, but also her job to serve as a leader and mentor for others, especially women. The growth of Dick’s Sporting Goods under Lauren’s leadership is undeniable. She took a big box retailer that needed a major upgrade and brought it up to speed for the modern day, helping to make it the top sporting goods store in the country. Since she took over as CEO in 2021, revenue has grown by 40 percent and net income has doubled. Impressive results when considering several other specialty retailers that were unable to evolve enough to compete with large e-commerce marketplaces and online shopping.
“Besides her skill and creativity in leading the company, Lauren has also inspired so many through her activism and commitment to making sure Dick’s is doing good in the communities it serves,” says Laura Pochop, MBA ’97. Lauren founded the Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation, focusing on breaking down equipment, infrastructure, and financial barriers to allow kids greater access to youth sports. She’s also the executive sponsor of an internal group called the “Mom Squad” that offers support for new moms who are making the transition back into the workforce.
Lauren has a focus on inclusivity because she believes “everyone is an athlete.” Under her leadership, the brand is expanding to additional brick-and-mortar formats like the retailer Public Lands, which is geared toward novice outdoor recreationalists. And Dick’s House of Sport locations offer interactive spaces like batting cages and climbing walls. Lauren has also partnered with Under Armour to design basketball shoes made specifically to fit women’s feet better. Time and time again, Lauren has shown that she isn’t afraid of public opinion, and stands courageously for what she believes is the best outcome for everyone. “I can’t think of someone who’s done more to change lives, change organizations, and change the world than Lauren Hobart,” adds Laura.
