Honoring the Women of lululemon

As a global apparel, footwear, and accessories company that has always taken a female-first design approach, lululemon is committed to supporting and empowering all women across its global collective each and every day. This is especially true for the employees, ambassadors, and makers who identify as women.

Women have been at the heart of lululemon since day one. With a workforce made up of approximately 70% women, female leaders have contributed to several major milestones and products for the brand. This year as the company celebrates International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, it honors the strength and leadership of 13 employees, all of whom identify as women, who will surpass 20 or more years of continuous tenure at lululemon.

“I’ve had the opportunity to learn from all the different people I’ve met during my 22 years here and pursue a multitude of roles within the world of product,” said Cassandra Sze, Senior Manager, Advanced Concepts, lululemon’s most tenured employee who joined in 2002. “Seeing products I took part in designing, such as the Scuba Hoodie, evolve from its initial style to what lives in stores now makes me very proud. Hearing athletes and guests share their excitement and feedback on products I’ve worked on inspires me to continuously innovate every day.”

On top of being encouraged to push creative boundaries, female employees are also supported in developing their leadership. Katie Cotter, Senior Retail Director, began her lululemon journey as an in-store Educator in November of 2004 and takes pride in the leader she has become over her career, working largely within the Retail business.

“I am committed to my practice of intentional listening and becoming a leader that is authentic to me,” said Katie. “Every single practice and everything I’ve committed to in my leadership has also contributed to helping me become the mom I am today and who I am as a person. lululemon has provided me with the strength and opportunity to create my own space and understand my leadership strengths.”

Employees across lululemon continue to have excitement and feel supported in growing their careers at lululemon. Rishi Tiwana, Sourcing Category Manager, joined lululemon in December of 2004 and has been a part of some of lululemon’s biggest moments, from developing product for major events like SeaWheeze to bringing major franchise products such as Align and Dance Studio to market.

“What I know now that I wish I knew in 2004 is that my daily contributions will have a great and long-lasting impact on the company,” said Rishi. “I’ve been able to do hard things that I didn’t think I could do, and I’ve been pushed to do things out of my comfort zone that I’ve never imagined for myself. I feel proud of the products I’ve worked on. I’m still – after 20 years – so excited about our product and I love seeing our new innovations and the guest so excited about our product. Just knowing that I had a part in that makes a big difference for me.”  

“These tenured women have made a tremendous impact on our organization, and we are extremely grateful for all their contributions and admire their relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth,” said Tracy Hutton, Vice President, Learning, Leadership and Talent Activation at lululemon.

lululemon is continuing to make strides toward advocating for and uplifting women within the organization and across global communities through open dialogues with employees, held its first-of-its kind, six-day, ultramarathon, FURTHER, and continuing its support of equitable leadership and career development opportunities across the company through the ‘Women Of’ programs.

“Our people are at the center of everything we do,” said Tracy. “And we’re excited to continue to support them in their lululemon, and life, journeys.”

Learn more about how lululemon is supporting women around the world in the 2022 Impact Report