Lululemon Makes Two C-Suite Additions

Lululemon Athletica Inc. (Vancouver, B.C) has unveiled two additions to its executive ranks: Ben Hallam as Chief Brand Officer, and effective immediately, and Emily Sunderland as Chief Strategy Officer, effective Nov. 23. The hirings mark some of the first public major moves by CEO Heidi O’Neill, who came over from Nike earlier this year to revitalize the brand that was also being pressured by founder and major stakeholder Chip Wilson to address slowing sales and a declining stock price.

Hallam, who will report to O’Neill, was previously SVP of Marketing at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts while Sunderland most recently served as Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting Group. She will report to CFO Meghan Frank.

“Ben brings an exceptional combination of creative vision, commercial discipline, and experience transforming iconic, premium brands at scale,” said O’Neill. “He has led brand, marketing, and creative teams across markets, and has a deep understanding of culture and how to connect with consumers globally. His proven ability to translate brand strategy into distinctive and compelling guest experiences will be critical as we strengthen how our brand comes to life across every touchpoint. Ben will play a central role in building a stronger and more competitive lululemon.”

As for Sunderland, she brings “deep expertise across activewear, apparel and specialty retail, she will play an important role in developing lululemon’s long-term strategy, identifying future growth opportunities, and strengthening strategic planning,” the company’s news release on the hirings said.