Joel Lessard, SVP, Accessories & Apparel, shares everything you need to know about working on the WHOOP Accessories & Apparel team!
Overview of the WHOOP Apparel and Accessories Team
The WHOOP Apparel and Accessories department, led by Joel Lard, Senior Vice President of Apparel and Accessories, is a core division within the Boston-based wearable technology company. The team is responsible for creating the bands, accessories, and apparel that allow users to seamlessly integrate the wearable health-coaching device onto various parts of the body, including the wrist, bicep, side torso, and waistbands.
End-to-End Product Lifecycle at WHOOP
The apparel and accessories division at WHOOP operates a complete, end-to-end business model. The team manages the entire product lifecycle from initial ideation to customer delivery. This comprehensive process encompasses product concepting, design, prototyping, material sourcing, inventory management, supply chain coordination, and e-commerce merchandising on the digital storefront, alongside collaborating with membership services to address customer feedback.
Key Products Developed by the WHOOP Accessories Division
The division designs science-backed and data-driven products that are clinically tested to enhance athletic performance and user recovery. The product portfolio ranges from performance bands made from silicone and natural fibers to athletic garments like arm sleeves and shorts. Additionally, the team develops lifestyle wellness products such as sleep masks and blue-light-blocking glasses, which are designed and validated to improve sleep quality, rapid eye movement sleep, and heart rate variability.
Career Backgrounds and Team Diversity at WHOOP
The WHOOP apparel and accessories team comprises individuals with highly diverse professional backgrounds. Team members have previously worked for leading athletic footwear companies based in Boston, Fortune 100 merchandising corporations, and specialized technology firms. This blend of traditional apparel design, technical engineering, and business planning backgrounds fosters a highly cross-functional environment.
The WHOOP Interview and Hiring Process
To support recent team growth across roles like inventory analysts, product marketing managers, and product designers, WHOOP utilizes a structured evaluation process. Candidates typically progress through an initial recruiter screening, followed by a focused interview with the direct hiring manager. The final stages involve panel interviews with future teammates and cross-functional partners from other departments to evaluate technical capability and collaborative fit.
Cultural Attributes Valued at WHOOP
When evaluating candidates, the WHOOP interviewing team focuses heavily on cultural alignment and working style. The company prioritizes individuals who demonstrate high levels of humility and high levels of intensity. Candidates must show how they translate this intensity and humility into proactive, positive, and highly collaborative team dynamics.
Why Boston Tech Professionals Choose WHOOP
WHOOP provides a fast-paced, high-energy environment for tech professionals in the Boston area. Candidates looking to make a meaningful impact are drawn to the company because its products are designed to optimize human performance and help members live healthier, longer lives.
