Lululemon founder Chip Wilson has voiced concerns about the company’s decision to appoint ex-Nike executive Heidi O’Neill as CEO, as he continues to advocate for new directors to revitalize the aging brand.
Wilson, holding 8.6% of the company, publicly commented for the first time on Wednesday following Heidi O’Neill’s appointment as CEO on April 22nd.
Wilson wrote, “Now more than ever, the next CEO needs brand and product support on the board to help attract leading talent and deliver a turnaround… Unfortunately for Heidi and shareholders, this support is clearly not currently represented on the Board.”
“The existing Board does not have the skillset to hire a world-class brand/product person who can deliver on the newest zeitgeist or style of the moment.”
The criticism comes after Wilson’s launch of a proxy fight earlier this year to install three directors on Lululemon’s board. He has stated for months that he will not support any CEO appointed without a board overhaul.
O’Neill will start as CEO and join the Board effective September 8, 2026, and will be based in Vancouver.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
