Lululemon Athletica announced a significant leadership transition today, revealing that CEO Calvin McDonald will step down on January 31, 2026. This decision follows a period of softening sales in the crucial U.S. market and persistent public criticism from company founder Chip Wilson regarding the brand’s creative direction.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Board has appointed CFO Meghan Frank and CCO André Maestrini as interim co-CEOs while a search for a permanent successor is underway. Marti Morfitt, the current Board Chair, will assume the role of Executive Chair during this transition. Interestingly, the announcement was made alongside a stronger-than-anticipated Q3 earnings report and an upward revision of the full-year guidance, a development that initially led to a surge in Lululemon’s stock price, suggesting investor confidence in the future direction of the brand despite the executive turnover.
The Future of Your Favorite Yoga Pants: Lululemon CEO Stepping Down in 2026
After nearly seven years at the helm, the leadership that guided Lululemon’s recent expansion is changing. CEO Calvin McDonald will officially depart in January 2026. This shift comes as the premium athletic wear giant navigates a few challenges, including tougher competition and recent complaints from long-time fans and founder Chip Wilson about the brand’s design and inclusive sizing strategy.
For now, the company is in the capable hands of Chief Financial Officer Meghan Frank and Chief Commercial Officer André Maestrini, who will serve as co-CEOs while the board seeks a new leader. The biggest question for consumers is how this executive change will influence the aesthetics, quality, and pricing of Lululemon’s iconic apparel in the coming years.
Lululemon CEO Calvin McDonald Resigns, Effective January 2026
- Departure: CEO Calvin McDonald will leave Lululemon on January 31, 2026.
- Interim Leadership: CFO Meghan Frank and CCO André Maestrini will take over as interim co-CEOs.
- Context: The decision follows slower U.S. sales growth and recent public disagreements with founder Chip Wilson over company strategy.
- Market Reaction: The news was packaged with positive Q3 earnings, boosting the company’s stock.
