Why Skills-First Leadership Is Replacing the Ivy League Playbook in the C-Suite
05/23/2025
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The old prestige pyramid—where Ivy League degrees and blue-chip consulting backgrounds paved the way to the CEO seat—is cracking.
In a strategic move to bolster its design team and propel its creative vision, athletic apparel giant Lululemon has appointed Mr. Jonathan Cheung as its new Global Creative Director. Effective immediately, Mr. Cheung assumes the mantle previously held by the late Phil Dickinson, whose passing in May 2023 left a significant void within the company.
Bringing over three decades of experience in the fashion and retail landscape, Mr. Cheung arrives at Lululemon with a distinguished resume. His illustrious career encompasses executive roles at renowned brands like Levi’s, Franco Moschino, and Giorgio Armani, where he honed his design, innovation, and business leadership expertise. Moreover, his recent consulting work with major retailers, including Gap, Mattel, and Merrell, further underscores his versatility and adaptability within the dynamic world of consumer goods.
Mr. Cheung’s appointment coincides with the expansion of Lululemon’s design team, marked by the creation of a dedicated Vice President of Design for Outerwear position, filled by Ms. JJ Collier. This strategic move highlights the company’s growing focus on outerwear as a critical segment for future growth, capitalizing on the increasing demand for versatile and stylish performance apparel.
With his extensive experience and proven track record in the industry, Mr. Cheung is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Lululemon’s creative direction. His arrival is expected to infuse the brand with fresh perspectives and innovative approaches while building upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessors. The synergy between Mr. Cheung and Ms. Collier promises to further elevate Lululemon’s design prowess and propel the company toward continued success in the competitive activewear market.
As Lululemon embarks on a new chapter with Mr. Cheung at the helm, industry observers eagerly await the unveiling of his vision for the brand. His appointment undoubtedly injects excitement into the company’s trajectory, raising anticipation for the future of Lululemon’s design aesthetic and its impact on the ever-evolving world of athletic apparel.
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