Apple’s Retail Boss Leaving Company In April

Angela Ahrendts, the leader of Apple’s retail division, is going to leave the company in April. Apple has confirmed her impending departure in a press release today. Ahrendts joined Apple back in 2014. Prior to her appointment, she was serving as the CEO of the luxury fashion brand Burberry.

“The last five years have been the most stimulating, challenging and fulfilling of my career. Through the teams’ collective efforts, Retail has never been stronger or better positioned to make an even greater contribution for Apple,” said Angela Ahrendts.

Angela Ahrendts is going to leave Apple in April “for new personal and professional pursuits.” Her successor is Deirdre O’Brien who has been with Apple for three decades. She’s now the Senior Vice President of Retail + People.

Apple has added O’Brien to its executive leadership page, noting her position as the head of retail for the company. This suggests that Ahrendts might be stepping down from her role immediately, despite her planned departure for April.

In addition to looking after retail, O’Brien will continue to lead the People team at Apple. She will oversee all People-related functions which include talent development and Apple University. Apple has a global retail network of 506 physical stores on five continents in addition to its 35 online stores.

Adnan Farooqui
Categories: Apple