Sourcing Category Manager | 19-Months Contract

Sourcing Category Manager | 19-Months Contract 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. That includes creating an equitable, inclusive, and growth‑focused environment for our people. We are the Sourcing Department. We manage the relationship with our apparel vendors & ensure that lululemon has best‑in‑the‑world manufacturers. We work cross‑functionally across the entire product team to ensure product meets our business strategy, quality & cost goals. We then work with our vendors to make those products a reality. A Day In The Life The Sourcing Category Manager reports to the Senior Manager, Sourcing, and will be the category expert in sourcing, costing and delivering margins against Bottoms styles, including products such as Base Layers, Hoodies, Pullovers, Lightweight woven jackets, etc., along with technologies such as bonding, laser cut, garment wash. The Manager will develop plans and strategies that address category‑specific margin goals, build vendor relationships aligned with product category capabilities, and ensure timely commercialization of categories with a ‘Best Cost’ strategy. Responsibilities Manage category vendor relationship on long‑range planning, challenges and opportunities. Translate long‑range strategies to drive seasonal vendor allocation and execution priorities. Partner with Lululemon Liaisons Offices and Merchandising teams to support category costing and negotiations. Ensure cost and margin for assigned category meets seasonal target. Manage data analysis of product cost and margin, including updates in costing systems. Develop action plans to mitigate margin/capacity risk and proposals to reduce cost, working closely with cross‑functional partners. Support sourcing of and onboarding of new vendors, working closely with the supply chain onboarding team. Build strong relationships with vendors and cross‑functional teams to foster partnership and trust. Track all Go To Market Calendar by “when’s” and ensure all sourcing seasonal calendar timelines are met. Take ownership and drive special projects related to speed initiatives. Love to travel. Qualifications 7–10 years of experience building relationships with offshore manufacturers. Strong understanding of the apparel manufacturing process. Knowledge of FOB, landed pricing and mark‑ups. Well‑versed in apparel cost breakdowns and passionate about numbers. Attention to detail, extremely organized, and able to execute tasks consistently to meet deadlines. Multi‑tasker who can handle multiple projects with a variety of cross‑functional partners. Excellent team player with the ability to work independently. Confident, open to challenges, and driven by integrity. Comfortable analyzing data and adept in Excel; Power BI is a plus. 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, creating space for others to do the same. Lead with courage, knowing the possibility of greatness is greater 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, i.e., not taking yourself too seriously. Additional notes Authorization to work in Canada is required for this role. Compensation And Benefits Package The typical hiring range for this position is from $103,500 - $135,900 CAD annually; the base pay offered is based on market location and may vary depending on job‑related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity. Permanent employees may be eligible for an annual bonus program, subject to 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 (among others) Note: The incentive programs, benefits, and perks have certain eligibility requirements. Lululemon 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. Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Marketing and Sales Industries Retail #J-18808-Ljbffr