Lululemon Announces Organizational Changes and Chief Product Officer’s Departure
Lululemon Athletica revealed on Tuesday an updated and more integrated organizational structure, coinciding with the resignation of Sun Choe, chief product officer, who is set to leave the company later this month for another opportunity. Choe will not be replaced.
The Canadian activewear company stated that the organizational adjustments aim to support its short- and long-term growth plans, boost product innovation, and enhance its go-to-market strategies. With the changes, Jonathan Cheung, global creative director, will now report to CEO Calvin McDonald and will be responsible for driving the product design and innovation roadmap, while continuing to oversee design, innovation, and product development, effective immediately.
The company will also establish a new team comprised of leaders from its merchandising and brand functions to expand its global and regional go-to-market strategies. Consequently, Nikki Neuburger will assume the role of chief brand and product activation officer, taking charge of merchandising, footwear, and product operations, alongside her current leadership of the brand. Elizabeth Binder, chief merchandising officer, will report to Neuburger.
McDonald expressed gratitude for Choe’s contributions over the past seven years, noting that she leaves behind a stronger, product-led organization with capable leaders prepared to drive the company forward. He stated, “Looking ahead, I am confident in the strength of our design, merchandising, and brand teams, and excited by how the new structure will enable us to address the unmet needs of our customers in a more efficient, unique, and powerful manner.”
Earlier this month, the North American firm disclosed its plans to acquire the operations and retail locations of its franchise partner in Mexico.