Lululemon bolsters executive team with ex-Adidas and ex-Nike industry veterans

Lululemon has added two industry veterans to its executive team after it launched into the footwear category recently.

Simon Atkins, who spent 25 years at Adidas, has joined as Senior Vice President of Footwear, whilst Phil Dickinson, who was with Nike for 15 years and most recently Creative Director at Superdry, will become Senior Vice President, Global Creative Director.

They will both report to Sun Choe, Lululemon's Chief Product Officer.

Atkins will be leading the development and execution of the brand’s new global footwear strategy and business, overseeing the category’s innovation, development and merchandising teams, and partnering with design, supply chain and brand.

His appointment follows Lululemon's introduction of performance footwear for women, with a collection for men coming next year.

Dickinson will shape the brand's global creative strategy and roadmap for product design and will be expected to bolster its design team. After spending a large chunk of his career at Nike, he established a creative agency in London and most recently was the Global Creative Director for SuperDry where he oversaw product design.

Atkins said: “Lululemon’s brand strength is unparalleled and it’s an incredible time to join its best-in-class product team. I’m excited to be part of Lululemon’s continued growth story, and build on the positive response the brand has already received in launching its footwear offering.”

Dickinson added: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to join Lululemon and its team of creatives, who every day continue to redefine the product experience for its guests across apparel, accessories and footwear. With the growing significance of versatility in product, Lululemon holds an extraordinary position in the market, and I look forward to continuing to build upon that strength.”