Leaders in Technology - Meet John Darling

John Darling is our Senior Principal Architect, who is based in Seattle, WA.

John shares more about his career journey before and at lululemon, what his favourite part about working on the Technology team at lululemon is, and a passion he carries outside of his role at lululemon. Read on below! ↓ 

1.      How long have you worked at lululemon?

I grew my career at Nordstrom and was there for 33 years. I joined lululemon over 4 years ago and it still feels like yesterday, the honeymoon is not over! Although I have been working in the retail technology industry for over 30 years, I feel like I am fresh out of college hired by my dream company and being paid to learn, grow, provide value, and have FUN at the same time.

2.      What is your favourite way to move, grow, or connect?

It’s hard to pick one, as I have an answer for all, but I would say that I am given space to establish deep relations with co-workers, leaders, and the technology community. These connections are why I enjoy working at lululemon.

3.      How do your projects support the business, the company’s goals for growth and contribute value to our guests?

 As a Senior Principal Architect, I work with leaders to enable the business to achieve our vision and purpose securely. We are further utilizing our capabilities in AI/ML within security to further protect our guests and employees.

4.     What is your favourite part about working on the Technology team at lululemon?

The people and the talent. We have a diverse global technology team with many perspectives, who have guided, challenged, and coached me to grow. Our leaders push me beyond my comfort zone, while supporting me as such that I can make mistakes.

5.      What tech stack is your team working on?

Since security is embedded in all tech stacks at lululemon, I have an opportunity to learn and guide the teams to secure these technologies, and analyze how to secure innovative technologies, all while providing value for the business.