Director, Technical Development

Description & Requirements

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
Imagine Design is the Architect of a product, and Product Development is the Engineer. 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, Fit, 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
Lead the Technical Development and Innovation of apparel products, ensuring fit consistency and brand integrity is maintained and at the forefront of the market. This role combines technical expertise in fit, garment construction, materials and manufacturing processes with strategic leadership to ensure the highest quality and performance of our products and our people. Drive close collaboration with Design, Innovation, PD, Merchandising, Sourcing and the Production teams to foster and build product excellence and operational efficiency from development through production.

Responsibilities:
• Create and update processes and standards to deliver the best and most consistent fit experience for the lululemon guests and business. Ensure TD managers and their respective teams are conducting fit sessions accordingly and providing feedback to ensure garments fit, function and resonate with the guest and their expectations
• Identify and/or monitor supplier performance opportunities in partnership with PD and Sourcing Peers from the perspective of garment production (Cost, quality, technical) and provide feedback and/or resolution on how to improve
• Ongoing assessment and host of strategic conversations relative to fit and the business, where applicable, drive continuous improvement in product and technical development processes and methodologies.
• Monitor, address and resolve fit and quality issues through root cause analysis and corrective actions for both development and production
• Drive the completion and monitoring of a Classification and Silhouette system (Tight - Slim - Classic etc) that is universal for the business and clear for both internal users as well as the guest
• Partner with cross functional leaders including design, merchandizing, sourcing and marketing to ensure alignment on Brand strategies and develop product specifications, timelines and business goals from a technical perspective. (ie: New Fit / Fit and Presentation Models etc)
• Lead with technical expertise and guidance in garment construction, fit and materials to ensure the team is making the best product from a technical perspective; development through production
• Stay informed and drive initiatives to integrate industry trends, innovations, and new technologies in garment manufacturing and materials
• Motivate and coach the team to drive performance, development and business goals

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in related discipline or equivalent professional experience; focused training in Technical Design, Pattern Making, Product Development or relevant experience preferred
• 15+ years minimum experience in pattern engineering or technical development within fashion industry, with proven leadership experience managing a team
• 5+ years minimum people management within technical development/design, product development and pattern engineering
• Industry experience working with manufacturers across Asia, Americas and Europe preferred.
• Proficiency in MS office (Excel/Word/Outlook), Adobe Design Suite (Illustrator and Photoshop)
• Proficiency with Flex PLM or similar PLM software
• Knowledge in CAD software (Gerber, Lectra, Optitex) and other pattern making tools.
• Knowledge with 3D Software required (Browzwear and CLO)
• Expert technical knowledge of performance and ready to wear product lifecycle, fit, construction, costing and international manufacturing; domestic manufacturing
• Strategic and innovative mindset with the ability to plan and deliver to future product growth roadmaps, specific to technical (Fit/Pattern/ Construction) of product.
• Exposure to fitting on multiple fits: Women's: Global/Contour/Plus/Cup Intentions and Men's: Global/Plus
• Strong interpersonal skills including analytical, problem solving, organizational, issue resolution, and internal and external relationship management
• Decisive and strategic leader with a proven track record of hitting business goals and deliverables specific to technical development
• Passionate about mentoring, coaching, and training Managers according to individual goals and objectives
• Extensive knowledge of cross-functional team accountabilities paired with a detailed understanding of product creation calendar from design through to in store delivery
• Curiosity for change and learning, capable of managing ambiguity
• Expert ability to anticipate, mitigate and resolve conflicts across working groups
• Professional written, visual, and verbal communication and presentation skills

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 NotesImmigration 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 CAD $185,800 - 243,800 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 equity offerings, 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

This role is classified as Hybrid under our SSC Workplace Policy:

Hybrid

In-person collaboration is important, and much of the role can be performed remotely. Work is performed onsite at least 3 days per week.

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-LU1

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