Lululemon has hired Nike’s former Chief Sustainability Officer, Noel Kinder, as its senior vice president of sustainability. The retailer stated that Kinder is responsible for “defining and implementing Lululemon’s global internal and external sustainability and environmental strategies, including an effective and efficient governance process.” He reports to Ted Dagnese, LULU’s chief supply chain officer.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Noel to Lululemon to lead our sustainability team. He brings deep global experience in building and scaling sustainability strategies and goals that drive impact and results,” said Dagnese. “Noel’s leadership, global perspective, and proven track record will be instrumental as we continue to advance our Impact work to create a more circular and sustainable future.”
Kinder spent nearly 25 years at Nike, most recently serving as chief sustainability officer. In this role, Kinder reportedly “drove the creation and operationalization of Nike’s global sustainability strategy, including the development of enterprise-wide sustainability commitments and science-based targets. He held positions in sourcing and manufacturing, operations, finance, and strategic planning.”
“I’m excited to join Lululemon at an important time in their sustainability journey,” said Kinder. Lululemon is a leader in innovation and is deeply committed to advancing its sustainability and climate goals. I look forward to partnering with the talented teams across the company to continue this critical work and create meaningful, lasting change.”
Kinder has served on advisory boards, including the Collab Fund’s Sustainability Advisory Board, the New York Stock Exchange Sustainability Advisory Council and the Global Fashion Summit Steering Committee. In 2024, he joined the Executive Council at o9 Solutions, bringing his expertise in global sustainability, supply chain management and government relations.
Kinder replaces Esther Speck, who served as senior vice president of Sustainable Business and Impact at Lululemon for almost ten years. Lululemon said, “As Esther pursues her next chapter, Lululemon is grateful for her leadership in establishing and driving Lululemon’s enterprise Impact Agenda and sustainability progress during her time with the company, and through this transition.”
Images courtesy Lululemon
