Lululemon is reshaping its senior leadership team under CEO Heidi O’Neill, just a month after she took the top job, as the athletic apparel brand looks to streamline its operations.
The overhaul creates two new executive roles, with former Athleta CEO Maggie Gauger joining as president and chief product officer, and ex-Walmart Canada executive Joseph Godsey becoming chief operating officer. Both appointments take effect October 26.
O’Neill said the changes aim to speed up the process from product development to launch while improving product quality and innovation.
“Lululemon is a rare, extraordinary brand, but we have work to do to build a stronger and more competitive company,” she said.
“We are establishing a deeply experienced leadership team that will work in a more coordinated manner, aligned around the strategy and execution that delivers the most impact for our business.”
Gauger will lead the company’s design, merchandising, footwear, product development, and materials science teams.
Meanwhile, Godsey will handle sourcing and production, commercialization, go-to-market, fulfillment, planning, allocations, and sustainability.
The leadership shake-up also includes the departures of chief supply chain officer Ted Dagnese and chief brand and product activation officer Nikki Neuburger, effective November 6.
Meanwhile, Lululemon has begun searches for a chief brand officer, chief communications officer, chief technology officer, and chief strategy officer.
CFO Meghan Frank will assume interim oversight of the brand and technology functions until permanent appointments are made. Chief commercial officer André Maestrini, chief legal and compliance officer Shannon Higginson, and chief people and culture officer Susan Gelinas will remain in their current roles.
O’Neill said the new structure is intended to bring the company’s brand, product, and guest experience closer together as it pursues long-term growth.
“Developing stronger connections between brand, product, and the guest experience will support a unified approach across these core elements of the business,” she added.
“This is an important first step in reinvigorating our enduring connection with guests and is designed to establish the foundation for sustainable, long-term growth.”
