lululemon Manager, Apparel Product Development

Description & Requirements

Product Development | Product Development Manager

who we are

lululemon is an innovative performance apparel company for yoga, running, training, and other athletic pursuits. Setting the bar in technical fabrics and functional design, we create transformational products and experiences that support people in moving, growing, connecting, and being well. We owe our success to our innovative product, emphasis on stores, commitment to our people, and the incredible connections we make in every community we're in. As a company, we focus on creating positive change to build a healthier, thriving future. In particular, that includes creating an equitable, inclusive and growth-focused environment for our people.

about this team

From concept through to pre-production stage, Product Development is the front-line regarding communication with the finished goods vendor base, launching sketches, requesting sampling, fitting product, and keeping an accurate data library of the life cycle of a product. Product Development is a truly cross functional working group that pivot to partners such as Design, Concept, Global Fit, Technical Development, Quality, Merchandising, Finished Goods Sourcing, Raw Materials, and Go To Market operations to deliver a commercially ready product to our buying teams.

They are strong communicators who value and develop their cross functional relationships. This is a team of high performers who are constantly striving to develop personally and professionally, practicing open feedback in a trusting space. This team knows how to bring fun into their everyday, prioritising team connection and enjoying creative sessions together.

a day in the life

The Product Development Manager is responsible for leading a team of individuals to drive the commercialization of best-in-class product in partnership with creative and strategic counterparts, balancing function, time, cost, and quality while delivering design intent. They strategize product road maps, industry standards and drive team project management expertise to deliver premium, functional, and innovative product fit for production.

• Execute on short and long-term product development strategies
• Lead, train, mentor, and coach the team to elevate business and soft skill set within team
• Reinforcing an environment for learning, open dialogue, collaboration, and transparency
• Drive internal process efficiency by encouraging co-creation with vendors and external partners as needed
• Mentor team members through personal development plans and career pathways
• Drive communication and influence cross-functional partners through issue resolution
• Collaborate with cross-functional team members to ensure full transparency and awareness of style status along multiple track seasonal deadlines
• Resource and allocate seasonal style capacity efficiently across various product classifications and team capabilities
• Manage seasonal product development to ensure cost parameters, quality, and design intention are achieved
• Maintain a knowledgeable overview of all product categories with the ability to proxy and aid in strategic decision making
• In partnership with cross-functional leaders, drive innovation and elevate process improvement
• Partner with cross-functional leaders to ensure raw materials and trim developments ladder into strategic product roadmaps
• Cooperate with all cross-functional leaders to ensure product is meeting cost objectives along the development timeline
• Recommend appropriate seasonal vendor allocation and partner with sourcing to provide insight on vendor

qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related discipline or equivalent professional experience; focused training in Technical Design, Product Management, Product Development or relevant experience preferred
• 8+ years minimum industry experience (preferably within the Product Development, Product Management or Sourcing departments)
• 2+ years minimum people leadership/mentorship experience
• Extensive technical knowledge of performance and or ready to wear product lifecycle, fit, construction, costing and international manufacturing; domestic manufacturing would be an asset
• Proficiency in MS office (Excel/Word/Outlook), Adobe Design Suite (Illustrator and Photoshop
• Proficiency with Flex PLM or similar PLM software is recommended

must haves

• Acknowledge the presence of choice in every moment and take personal responsibility for your life.
• Possess an entrepreneurial spirit and continuously innovate to achieve great results.
• Communicate with honesty and kindness and create the space for others to do the same.
• Lead with courage, knowing the possibility of greatness is bigger than the fear of failure.
• Foster connection by putting people first and building trusting relationships.
• Integrate fun and joy as a way of being and working, aka doesn't take yourself too seriously.

additional notes
Immigration support is potentially available for this role.

compensation and benefits package

lululemon's compensation offerings are grounded in a pay-for-performance philosophy that recognizes exceptional individual and team performance. The typical hiring range for this position is from $129,600 - 170,100 CAD annually ; the base pay offered is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity. As part of our total rewards offering, permanent employees in this position may be eligible for our competitive annual bonus program and subject to program eligibility requirements.

At lululemon, investing in our people is a top priority. We believe that when life works, work works. We strive to be the place where inclusive leaders come to develop and enable all to be well. Recognizing our teams for their performance and dedication, other components of our total rewards offerings include support of career development, wellbeing, and personal growth:

• Extended health and dental benefits, and mental health plans
• Paid time off
• Savings and retirement plan matching
• Generous employee discount
• Fitness & yoga classes
• Parenthood top-up
• Extensive catalog of development course offerings
• People networks, mentorship programs, and leadership series (to name a few)

Note: The incentive programs, benefits, and perks have certain eligibility requirements. The Company reserves the right to alter these incentive programs, benefits, and perks in whole or in part at any time without advance notice.


workplace arrangement

Hybrid

In-person collaboration and connection is important to our culture. Work is performed onsite, minimum 4 days per week.

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