lululemon appoints new executives

By Tamara Parker • Thursday, October 08 01:43 • Permanent Link

lululemon announced a major overhaul of its senior leadership structure on Oct. 7, naming two new executives and creating several new roles as it tries to sharpen product, brand and operations execution.

Maggie Gauger was appointed president and chief product officer, a newly created role, effective Oct. 26. Gauger most recently served as president and CEO of Athleta and brings more than 28 years of experience in athletic and performance apparel and footwear. Her remit will combine design, merchandising, footwear, product innovation and materials science.

Joseph Godsey was named chief operating officer, also a newly created role effective Oct. 26. Godsey most recently served as chief growth officer at Walmart Canada and previously was chief supply chain officer at Sam’s Club. His responsibilities will cover sourcing and production, commercialization, go-to-market, fulfillment, planning and allocations, and sustainability.

The leadership changes also mean departures. Nikki Neuburger, chief brand and product activation officer, and Ted Dagnese, chief supply chain officer, will leave the company on Nov. 6. lululemon said both will help with the transition.

The company said searches are underway for a chief brand officer, chief communications officer and chief technology officer. The chief communications officer will report directly to CEO Heidi O’Neill and join the senior leadership team. A search is also underway for a chief strategy officer, who will report to CFO Meghan Frank.

Several key executives are staying in place. André Maestrini will continue as president and chief commercial officer, Shannon Higginson will remain chief legal and compliance officer, and Susan Gelinas will stay chief people and culture officer.

O’Neill said the new structure is intended to put product, design and innovation at the center of the business, while connecting brand, product and guest experience more tightly across stores and online. The market has reacted to these announcements by moving the company's shares 0.51% to a price of $93.61. Check out the company's full 8-K submission here.

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