[Techtaffy Newsdesk]

Apple has decided to hire a new head of the company’s worldwide retail strategy from outside its corporate ranks. John Browett, former CEO of Dixons Retail, will join Apple as senior vice president of Retail, reporting to Apple CEO Tim Cook. Beginning in April, he will be responsible for Apple’s retail strategy and the continued expansion of Apple retail stores around the world.

Tim Cook (CEO, Apple): Our retail stores are all about customer service, and John shares that commitment like no one else we’ve met.

Mr. Browett comes to Apple from European technology retailer Dixons Retail, where he has been CEO since 2007. Prior to joining Dixons Retail, Mr. Browett held a series of executive positions at Tesco plc including CEO of Tesco.com. Earlier in his career he advised retail and consumer goods clients at Boston Consulting Group.

Mr. Browett holds a degree in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University and an MBA from Wharton Business School.