Meet Alexis! Her smile is one of the first things you see if you visit the Store Support Centre - so take advantage of this ice breaker!

what is something unique or surprising about you?

People are going to laugh when I say this, but I would consider myself an introvert. I am a die-hard bookworm and nothing appeals to me more than taking an afternoon to learn about a subject I am curious about – it could be anything from political history to horticulture. I have a very random and voracious appetite for knowledge. And don’t even get me started about how much I adore online search engines!

what is one of your biggest passions?

Music. To me it is the most expressive, emotive, and joyful thing in the world. Nothing beats a good concert with close friends or a long drive with a killer album.

a goal you've achieved that you're proud of?

I am proud of transitioning from the last industry I worked in to where I am today. Prior to being at lululemon, I worked managing a very high volume restaurant in downtown Vancouver. I loved the pace of the work, the quirky and entertaining people I met and worked with, and the challenges I faced everyday – not to mention, the pay was great. But I didn’t love the hours or the lack of security I felt in my role. Switching industries is a daunting challenge – you wonder if you will be any good or if you are making the right decision. In the end, however, with risks come big rewards – and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.

what do you want to be remembered for?

I want to be remembered as someone who is kind and genuine, and who knows how to laugh. Laughing is important.

how does your role elevate lululemon?

Well first of all, I feel a little bit funny talking about “my” role because our department really operates as a single unit. We are a tight little squad, us facilities ladies! We do everything from shipping to building repairs to office moves to administrative duties. We elevate the business by facilitating all of the functional components at the Store Support Centre - if the office runs like clockwork, we have made the work environment better for everyone so they can focus on our stores. We also are the first impression of the SSC and take being warm and friendly face of lululemon very seriously…because we are very serious people. Riiiiigght.

what is the scariest thing you've ever done? Are you glad you did it?

The scariest thing I’ve done is stand near the edge of the cliff at the top of the Chief hike in Squamish. I don’t mind heights – I’ve been skydiving a few times – but for some reason being near the edge of big drops gives me the creeps. I know, I’m a sissy.

what is your favourite way to sweat?

My NEW favorite way to sweat is the Dailey Method. I have always loved running but have had problems with my IT band for the last couple of years. Dailey Method does wonders for toning and stretching your muscles, and gives fabulous results without being hard on your joints. Try it – I have never been a dancer (hard to believe, I know, considering my evident grace) but one class and I was hooked. [Editor's note: Like the sound of Dailey Method? Learn more about it here]

Each Monday we introduce people from all over the company to you. Who do you want to meet next?

why lululemon?

lululemon is an inspiring and elevating environment. I’m challenged to grow personally and professionally every day. I love taking on my own development and feel privileged to be part of lululemon’s unique culture.

Sarah hula hooping!

how does your role in ecommerce elevate lululemon?

As a growing medium, the digital world is an amazing opportunity to increase the scope and depth of the connections we develop with our guests. The ecommerce team provides lululemon product and product education consistent with our in-store guest experience. An amazing perk of the lululemon online store is the opportunity it provides to connect with our global guests! Our online store has become the pre-shop stage for all lululemon athletica stores.

what is something unique or surprising about you?

I’m a motorcycle fanatic. My husband and I used to own a motorcycle training school and I used to be a part time instructor. It was very rewarding helping new riders off to good start with lessons. I love the freedom and thrill of two wheels. I love curvy roads and challenging trails. We (my husband, son and I) own street bikes and dirt bikes. We love to hit the road and the trails in the same day.

Sarah teaching her son to motorcycle!

your favourite place in the world?

Vancouver is truly my favourite place in the world. I can ski in the winter and sit on the beach with my family in the summer. I love that in Vancouver I can enjoy nature in the midst of a vibrant city. I rarely get in my car on the weekends and enjoy living where other people come for vacation.

what's your favourite way to sweat?

Recently I discovered running. Previously I would question why anyone would want to run for no reason, but now I get it. I run along the beach in the morning and watch the sunrise over the north shore, downtown and in Stanley Park, it’s energizing.

a goal you’ve achieved that you’re proud of?

Running a half marathon was not even possible for me one year ago. I finished my first half marathon in June, achieving a personal record. With the support of my family and coworkers, I have changed my lifestyle and am truly living into possibility. Friend and coworker Amy met me at the halfway mark with some other lululemon’s and cheered me over the bridge. It was fantastic to receive so much support and really motivated me.

The ecommerce team, based out of our Vancouver B.C. Store Support Centre, is growing. With an ever-increasing demand for lululemon product, the behind the scenes team that facilitates getting that product to market is growing as well. If you're a Merchandising Ecommerce Financial Planner or an Ecommerce Merchant, and have goals to develop alongside a growing company check out your future possibilities on the lululemon careers page.

Our freshest face this week is Erin, our new Public Relations Specialist. As a PR Specialist, Erin will be communicating from lululemon to the world! Read on to get to know her a little better.

Erin enjoying a nice sea breeze in Australia

what is one of your biggest passions?

I am passionate about many things but one of the things I am most passionate about is giving back to the community. I think it’s so important to give back and help others using the skills you have been blessed to develop. For the past four years, I have been volunteering with the Starlight Children’s Foundation, a non-profit children’s organization dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and I would encourage everyone to find an organization they are passionate about and dedicate some of their time to helping them in any capacity. You won’t regret it!

Can you spot Erin in the crowd?

what's your favourite way to sweat?

My favourite way to sweat is running. There is nothing better than the high you get after a really strong run. It helps that Vancouver is one of the best places in the world to run, thanks to our beautiful mountains and the fabulous seawall. I have run a number of half-marathons and one of my biggest fitness goals is to run a full marathon in under four hours before July 3, 2012.

what is the best place you've travelled?

The best place I’ve travelled to is definitely Australia. I spent four months travelling, working and having the best time of my life in the country. I can’t pick a single place there because it’s all so fantastic! I even had the privilege of working at the lululemon store in Melbourne as an educator.

coolest thing about being a public relations specialist?

The coolest thing about being a PR Specialist is that I get to share everything about lululemon, our functional clothing, our amazing people and our unique culture, with media from around the world. This role provides me with the opportunity to experience firsthand how much other people are passionate about us and gives me an incredible sense of pride to be a member of the lululemon family.

what is the scariest thing you've ever done? are you glad you did it?

The scariest thing I have ever done is decide to travel alone internationally. There is no question in my mind it was the best thing I have ever done. I spent four months travelling throughout Australia and a month cruising around Thailand and every second was absolutely unbelievable! I met the most incredible people, saw beautiful places and learned so much about myself.

We are incredibly excited to have Erin on the team! As a guest or fan of our products and culture you can look forwards to experiencing the innovation and passion she will bring to how lululemon speaks to you! Investigate your own future possibilities on the lululemon careers page.

how my role elevates lululemon?

I help attract and retain amazing people to lululemon every day. From exposing lululemon's freshest faces on Fridays to having an inspirational phone conversation about our newest would-be colleague, I contribute to magnetizing our future leaders and innovators every day.

something unique or surprising about me?

I collect anthologies, collections and dictionaries etc., of quotations. I have been collecting quotations since I was 16 and struggle to find the space for them in my Gastown apartment. I gather inspiration, advice, wisdom, and of course humour from our greatest recorded thinkers.

what gets me up in the morning ?

This guy, with tail wagging and tongue out!

the most beautiful place I’ve ever been?

When my best friend Maura up and moved to Bermuda I was originally a bit put out. But two fabulous trips to visit her later I have never been more convinced of paradise. Bermuda is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in the world & has a cultural history to match. Although I will be happy to have Maura back in Vancouver, I’m hoping to squeeze one more visit in before she comes home.

a goal I’ve achieved that I’m proud of?

My goal of the year was most definitely scoring my role as the lululemon athletica Attraction Ninja. Combining my creative abilities with my lust for a good joke, I wowed my interviewers with a circa late 80s marketing spoof. My only failure was my inability to execute more than 50% of the campaign before uncontrollable laughter set in - I blame my current manager who lost her composure at least two slides before I did.

why I love working at lululemon?

At lululemon I have the opportunity to celebrate my strengths, follow my goals, and most fantastically, exist as I am. Unlike many friends I know who lead a TGIF lifestyle I enjoy the privilege of anticipating my Mondays. At lululemon you don’t sludge through a 40-hour work week to make your living - you exist, create and develop for the intrinsic joy you feel as a result of your contributions to the whole as well as your own growth and development.

my biggest passion?

Whenever I see a flat green field or an open expanding trail I think of riding. I have experienced nothing more elevating than galloping across an open meadow – I think it has something to do with the complete joy radiating from the animal beneath you. Although I am currently on a lifestyle -induced hiatus (city life) from regular interaction with the beloved four-legged masterpieces, they will always be in my heart.

what do I want to be remembered for?

The best quotation anthology of all time. I’m not even joking. I’m thinking of doing a little coffee table number filled with tidbits of inspiration, joy & and wisdom. Personal goal: to avoid creating a toilet reader.

If you feel passionate about developing yourself and elevating the world you might want to consider aligning your talents and your livelihood. Live your Monday to Fridays to have fun, exist and develop and not just to survive until the weekend. Find out if your skill sets and career path align with any of our current possibilities on the lululemon careers page.

p.s. - I tweet career opportunities and daily inspirations (quotations). Check me out on twitter: @rebeccaapeel.

Michelle skiing up Mount Hemlock.

New to the team, Michelle will be ‘liaising’ between the Store Support Centre here in Vancouver and our merchandise planners Down Under! When our winter product hits the floor in the stores in Vancouver, Australia is just rolling into summer. It’s essential to plan the merchandise so the right product hits the floor at the right time, since nobody wants to rock around in a Da’Bomber jacket in 40 degree heat! Find out some more about Michelle and what it takes to be an Australian Liaison at lululemon athletica.

a goal you've achieved that you're proud of?

I completed the Victoria Marathon! Prior to finishing the race - I had my doubts it was possible for me to run 42km. My goal was to just make it across the finish line. Throughout the entire run it was a roller coaster of emotions. I met a woman who compared her first marathon to giving birth (something I have not experienced). I was truly inspired to be sharing the road with elite athletes and a wide range of runners - I pushed myself harder than I ever had before and that last km of the run was completely exhilarating. Crossing the finish line with my cousin was a very proud moment. Chris was beside me every mile of the race and I couldn't have done it without him.

what is one of your biggest passions?

Michelle and her boyfriend Mark at a wedding in Mexico.

Spending time with my boyfriend, Mark - we inspire and support each other every day. It makes me happy to be sharing the adventure of life with him and knowing that we will be sharing our lives and growing old (making the most of our Carlsberg years!!) together. I am also passionate about my friends & family. Who better than your loved ones to keep you focused on what is most important in life? - "It doesn't matter where you go; it's who's beside you that counts".

I appreciate every moment and the opportunity to experience life and love through the fresh eyes of my niece and nephew, they are my constant reminder to slow down and enjoy the little things in life.

what is your favourite way to sweat?

Early morning runs along the seawall are my favourite. It is the best way to remind myself of this amazing city (Vancouver) that we are so very lucky to call home! Any chance to enjoy the outdoors - snowshoeing & skiing in the winter, running, going for a ride on my cruiser pedal bike or conquering the Grind are what keep me going in the summer - this year stand up paddling is on my "to do" list!

Michelle and Mark posing post sweat on a tropical hike.

how does your role elevate lululemon?

I am very excited to take ownership of my new role of Australia Liaison. Not only am I a new addition to lululemon but my role is brand new as well! A big part of this position will be to keep the Australian merchant team in the loop on all the exciting development that is happening at the Store Support Centre here in Vancouver. I will be the eyes and ears for the AUS team, enabling them to elevate and expand their business in our growing market of Australia while I learn more about the challenges that they are faced with and working as a team to make the most of their business.

Michelle has been a most welcomed addition to the Store Support Centre. Her love for sweating combined with her passion for athletics and goal setting has made her a perfect fit (similar to our Groove Pants). If you think you would be a great fit find out if your career goals and professional background match up with any of our current possibilities on the lululemon careers page!

Susan relaxing on the patio.

why lululemon?

When I came across the job posting for the role of Compensation Manager at lululemon I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to apply; a chance to work in an entrepreneurial organization, with values similar to my own built on leading an athletic lifestyle, personal growth, and balance. Through the interview process, I was amazed by the investment that lululemon makes in its people offering what I believe are amazing career and personal development training/opportunities. Everyone here is truly committed to helping me achieve my goals! Oh, and did I also mention the added bonus of being able to wear luon to work every day? I find I am much more creative and focused when I am dressed in luon!

Susan prepping for a bike ride...

how does your role elevate lululemon?

As the Compensation Manager, my role is a pivotal part of lululemon’s people resources strategy. In particular, I work with our functions/businesses to create compensation programs that help lululemon attract and retain the top employee talent necessary to execute our business strategy. My role touches everything “pay related” from compensation philosophy development to incentive plan design for both our stores and our Store Support Centre – a chance to have a real impact on the organization.

coolest thing about working with the people resources team?

Working with the people resources team is truly a gift. It is an opportunity to work and sweat with other amazing people who have the collective goal of helping one another achieve their own career and personal goals. Everyone is a team player committed to helping the business grow.

Susan sweating with her bike team!

what is something unique or surprising about you?

I think most people would be surprised to know that I have taken flying trapeze lessons! My sister introduced me to the world of circus arts, and I really enjoyed the thrill of flying on the trapeze (and secretly pretending that I was part of Cirque de Soleil!). I was amazed by the amount of strength, balance and coordination the trapeze takes – one of the best workouts around. I would highly recommend that everyone try flying on a trapeze at least once in their life.

a goal you’ve achieved that you’re proud of?

Susan completing the run portion of an ironman.

I’m proud of finishing three ironman distances triathlons (which involves a 2.8km swim, a 180km bike and a 42km run). About five years ago, I remember thinking that it would be impossible for me to complete a race of this distance, but with a lot of dedication and the support of friends and family, I have been able to complete three ironman races. The process of training for and completing these races has helped me find a new level of strength and belief in myself and has introduced me to an amazing set of like-minded people -- many of whom are now good friends!

what is the best place you've travelled to?

I travelled to Australia and New Zealand when I was a teenager and recall the beauty of the area. I would love to have the opportunity to travel there again whether for pleasure or for work. My better half, Stephen, spent a year in Melbourne for work and we have often talked about visiting their together and furthering some of the friendships he made. Oh, and an added bonus, Australia has a ton of amazing triathlons which we would love to complete (Geelong half Ironman, Ironman Western Australia, and just a short trip away – Ironman New Zealand).

Susan and Stephen cross country skiing!

Interested in playing a vital role in lululemon athletica’s people strategy? From sea to sky Vancouver, B.C. is attracting athletes and entrepreneurs from all over the globe. If you're passionate about numbers and data analysis; and want to utilize your compensation analyst background to assist in designing variable pay programs check out your future possibilities.

This Friday meet our newest tech support specialist. Craig plays an essential role in supporting our stores by ensuring all of their technologies, computers, blackberries, printers, etc. are working properly. Find out more about his role and how he is elevating lululemon!

Craig with his dog, Keela.

how does your role elevate lululemon?

Being in a tech support role, we have the opportunity to speak with many many store educators and Store Support Centre employees on a daily basis. By making sure issues are solved and/or escalated in a timely manner, it elevates the ability of our team members to do their jobs more efficiently. The fantastic relationship between the business and IT support at lululemon helps to elevate the company as a whole.

why lululemon?

We are a local, grassroots company that cares about the communities in which their stores are located. Most recently I came from a Western Canadian grocery company that had its start in New Westminster, and have always enjoyed the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with working local. lululemon really gets it when it comes to staying true to core values and goals. We are also a growing company with opportunity abound, and for those motivated individuals (it’s not hard to get, and stay motivated in such a great company) the world is your oyster.

Craig and his staff hockey team with his previous employer.

coolest thing about being a tech support specialist?

Probably has to be the daily interaction with so many different people, and the fact that everyone accepts and realizes the importance of having an educated and motivated IT department. Also, can’t forget the toys. Being in this role you get to experience a lot of the cutting edge technology out there, as well as test and implement new technologies to help the support process, and ultimately the business become more efficient.

what is your favorite way to sweat?

I play hockey year round, as well as soccer whenever I get the opportunity. The combination of physical exertion mixed with mental competition is a great way to relieve stress and stay in shape. I’ve played hockey since I was a kid, so I guess I’ll embarrass myself a little bit and include an old hockey picture of me as a wee laddie.

what are you most passionate about?

Definitely friends and family – without them, what is life? Right? Totally cheesy, but it’s the truth.

Craig surfing with his passion...

Like the sound of Craig’s life? –inspired, passionate, athlete who loves is career!
If you’re a technology guru who loves helping and interacting with others check out your future possibilities with lululemon on the lululemon careers page.

View some of Craig's favourite lululemon gear:

• Essential Long Sleeve
• Pacific Beach Hoodie
• Smash Pant
• Wave Short

Meet Jen, from Merchandise Planning!

what are you most passionate about?

Absolutely without a doubt I am most passionate about my husband. He is my favourite person! We have a blast playing and travelling together. We are also very real; we talk it out when we have to. I have so much passion in making our relationship the best that it can be. I am also very passionate about reminding the people in my life just how awesome they are.

Jen and her husband in Egypt, touring the pyramids of Giza.

what is the scariest thing you've ever done? Are you glad you did it?

Jumping out of an airplane was the scariest thing I have ever done. I was absolutely terrified during our ascent in the plane. I couldn't speak. And I’m fairly certain that I screamed for the entire freefall. Oh yes, I am glad I did it. Oh no, I will never do it again.

what is your favorite way to sweat?

I am a big fan of sweating. The sweatiest I have ever been is during a hot sweaty Bikram yoga class. I L-O-V-E yoga. Currently I am drawn to the very deep and restorative types of yoga. But I go through phases where I am all about the muscle-y power yoga or the hot-hot-hot yoga. I also love the feeling of a run in the sunshine, and I absolutely dig surfing, scuba diving, backpacking & snowboarding.

Jen finishing the famous Oregon Hood to Coast, 180 mile (290k), 12 person team relay.

what is the best place you've travelled to (or the place you'd love to go to)?

It is so incredibly difficult to choose one place, but I have to say the island of Bonaire. My experience snorkeling and diving around that island was so dreamy, the memories are so vivid. And there is a sea turtle swimming those waters right now that still holds a very special place in my heart. Runners up are Thailand, Sydney, Australia, and my oh-so-dreamy honeymoon in Belize. Next on the list is somewhere in the Pacific Islands.

Jen snorkeling on the Island of Bonaire, 80km of the coast of Venezuela.

coolest thing about being a merchandise planner?

The coolest thing about merchandise planning is that we really dig into the biz. We know how the business did last year. We know what our targets are as a company for the future. And we know how we are tracking to those targets. We are always waist-deep in what is working and what is not. It’s cool to know all that stuff and apply our learnings to the future. Plus, partnering with the merchants we are always close to the product, which of course we are all wild and crazy about.

Attention all passionate, fun, energetic, constantly aspiring embodiments of greatness: you could be the next Jen. If you think you have some greatness to bring to the Merchandise Planning team, check out the lululemon careers page.

what gets me up in the morning?

What gets me up in the morning is knowing that I’m heading in to work with amazing people who are doing what they love. Everything I’m doing at lululemon contributes to getting me ready to achieve my goal of owning a leadership facility with my husband. It’s incredible to do work that contributes to my future each and every day.

why do I love working at lululemon?

I love working at lululemon because the environment is challenging and supportive. I know that I can try new things and if I fail the people around me will be there to give me feedback, support me in trying again and believe in me. I can take risks and innovate in a safe, fun environment.

I love my work as Head of Leadership Development because I get to work with people who are taking themselves on in a big way. I am honoured to learn from them and to contribute to them being greater than they thought they could be. One of my coaches told me to “teach what I want to learn most” and I am able to do that every day. I’m convinced I have the best job in the world!

how does my role in leadership development elevate lululemon?

My team and I are committed to people seeing how through choice they can be great in their lives. We create workshops and programs for people to develop in both their professional skill and their personal lives. We know that if people are achieving goals, taking care of themselves and are always developing, our business will flourish! When people are able to see that through taking personal responsibility they can create anything they want for their lives, they see that they have the power to change the world.

Do you love developing, coaching and inspiring others? Check out some of the upcoming possibilities in leadership development on our careers page.

She had us at hello!

Meet Toni, the newest member of our yoga design team! We're thrilled to welcome her expertise, glowing smile, and quick wit to the lululemon family. When Toni isn't whipping out gorgeous yoga designs, she can be found rock climbing, mountain biking, running, swimming, or dancing... if she hasn't already taken off on a globe-trotting expedition! Get to know more about Toni through our fresh faces interview...

tell us something surprising about yourself:

I was a professional dancer for about fifteen years: seven years of ballet class, five years of hip hop and street dance, plus a couple of years of teaching street dance and jazz to kids. Yes, I know - it's hard to imagine me in a tutu onstage dancing and jumping around. But at least it was always a black or white tutu, not pink!

what's your favourite way to sweat?

Mysore-style Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga at least three times a week. And on the weekends, my partner and I love to explore Canada's wilderness in our 4x4 camper van. Camping and hiking are a must!

tell us about your biggest, hairiest, most audacious goal:

My goal is to take our van on a road trip through South America, Japan and India. I'm looking forward to connecting with the locals and enjoying the incredible scenery. I'd also love to keep a blog of my journey, so I can share my impressions and inspire my friends at home.

what attracted you to lululemon?

The overall concept of the company. The sense of community is breathtaking and incredibly inspiring. Also, the products are truly functional since they're made with (and for) athletes. Due to my active life I have always loved designing clothing and accessories which bond function and style.

what excites you most about your new role?

Getting involved with the lululemon culture and community. After designing with great people at Adidas (sport-specific), Adidas by Stella McCartney, Aritzia, Maier-Sports and others, I'm eager to share my experience and knowledge with my new team. I hope to bring a touch of fresh style and originality to lululemon's yoga designs!

Could you be the next fresh face at lululemon? Our design team is still growing, so if you're interested in becoming a designer for Apres, Accessories, Mens or Run, check out our careers website and apply! http://www.lululemon.com/about/careers