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Lululemon has appointed industry veteran and former Nike Vice President Maggie Gauger as its Chief Product Officer as the apparel maker reshapes its leadership under new CEO Heidi O’Neill.
Gauger will join Lululemon on October 26 and will oversee the company’s product organisation at a time when the sportswear brand is working to strengthen its product offering and respond to changing consumer preferences. She most recently served as CEO of Gap’s performance apparel brand Athleta and previously spent several years at Nike, where she worked alongside O’Neill.
Her appointment comes as Lululemon faces pressure over product missteps, including issues that have resulted in consumer backlash and product recalls. The company is also looking to broaden its appeal beyond its signature leggings as it competes with newer sportswear brands.
Alongside Gauger, Lululemon has appointed Joseph Godsey as Chief Operating Officer.
“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,” O’Neill said of the appointments.
The leadership changes come amid a challenging period for Lululemon. The company’s shares have nearly halved in value so far this year and are on track for a third consecutive year of declines. Its net income is expected to fall by nearly 40% this year compared with fiscal 2024, according to LSEG data.
Lululemon also announced that Chief Brand Officer Nikki Neuburger and Chief Supply Chain Officer Ted Dagnese will leave the company, effective November 6. The company said it has begun searching for candidates to fill both positions.
Until their replacements are appointed, Chief Financial Officer Meghan Frank will oversee the company’s global brand and technology functions.
The leadership overhaul comes as O’Neill works on a turnaround strategy aimed at strengthening Lululemon’s product pipeline, rebuilding customer engagement and positioning the brand for longer-term growth.
