Senior Technology Director - AI/ML Applied Science

About the role

The Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) Research team is specifically responsible for exploring, developing, and advancing cutting-edge AI capabilities that will transform lululemon’s future business growth. This team operates at the intersection of research and application—identifying emerging technologies, building new models, and translating complex business challenges into scalable AI-driven algorithms.

Core responsibilities

• Define and drive a forward-looking AI research roadmap (3–5-year horizon) aligned to business priorities
• Explore emerging technologies, methods, and models to unlock future capabilities
• Lead the design, development, and optimization of complex AI/ML models
• Translate complex business challenges into AI-driven solutions
• Partner with cross-functional leaders to identify high-impact use cases
• Ensure research outputs are aligned with tangible business outcomes
• Provide expert guidance that shapes the broader AI/ML research strategy
• Act as a thought leader across the organization in AI innovation
• Contribute to establishing lululemon’s AI capabilities as a competitive advantage
• Collaborate closely with AI Platform and Data teams to productionize solutions
• Ensure research innovations can be effectively integrated into business operations
• Balance experimentation with scalable, practical implementation
• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of AI/ML research scientists
• Foster a culture of innovation, experimentation, and continuous learning
• Build an inclusive, collaborative environment aligned with lululemon’s values

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in AI/ML, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation
• Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in Computer Science, Machine Learning, AI, or related field with a strong publication record in peer-reviewed conferences and journals
• Proven experience leading technical research teams in industry or academia
• Deep expertise in modern AI/ML techniques (e.g., deep learning, NLP, generative AI, optimization)
• Track record of developing novel models, frameworks, or applied research solutions
• Experience translating research into real-world business applications
• Strong collaboration experience with engineering and data platform teams

Additional notes

• Authorization to work in the U.S. is required for this role.
• Please note: Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visa at this time for this role.

Compensation and benefits package

• The typical hiring range for this position is from $300,340-394,190 annually; the base pay offered is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity.
• As part of our total rewards offering, permanent employees in this position may be eligible for our competitive annual bonus program and equity offerings, subject to program eligibility requirements.
• Investing in our people is a top priority. We believe that when life works, work works. We strive to be the place where inclusive leaders come to develop and enable all to be well. Recognizing our teams for their performance and dedication, other components of our total rewards offerings include support of career development, wellbeing, and personal growth:
• Extended health and dental benefits, and mental health plans
• Paid time off
• Savings and retirement plan matching
• Generous employee discount
• Fitness & yoga classes
• Parenthood top-up
• Extensive catalog of development course offerings
• People networks, mentorship programs, and leadership series (to name a few)

Workplace arrangement

• In-person collaboration and connection is important to our culture. Work is performed onsite, minimum 4 days per week.