Lululemon poaches Athleta CEO as new chief product officer

by | Oct 8, 2026 | Business

Lululemon poaches Athleta CEO as new chief product officer

Lululemon announced the appointment of Maggie Gauger as president and chief product officer in a newly created role, effective later this month. Gauger previously served as CEO of Athleta, which she joined from Nike approximately one year prior to this announcement. The move represents part of broader leadership changes at the retailer.

Simultaneously, Lululemon promoted Joseph Godsey to the position of chief operating officer. The company also announced that Nikki Neuburger, who held the title of chief brand and product activation officer, and Ted Dagnese, the chief supply chain officer, will depart in November to pursue other opportunities.

Lululemon CEO Heidi O’Neill characterized the restructuring as an effort to establish a more coordinated leadership team focused on product innovation and design. She emphasized that the changes prioritize placing product development and innovation at the center of the company’s operations, with the goal of strengthening the pipeline of differentiated products for customers across all channels.

Gap Inc., Athleta’s parent company, confirmed Gauger’s departure and indicated that Erika Everett, the brand’s chief marketing officer, will serve as interim CEO. Gap stated that the transition would allow the company to strengthen customer connections and advance Athleta’s long-term growth strategy.

Lululemon indicated it is actively recruiting for three additional executive positions: chief brand officer, chief communications officer, and chief technology officer. O’Neill assumed her role as CEO last month, following a period marked by extended disappointing sales performance and internal leadership challenges at the athleisure company.

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