Deirdre O’Brien

Deirdre O'Brien is an executive at Apple Inc., serving as the company's senior vice president of Retail. She reports directly to CEO Tim Cook and is responsible for leading Apple's retail store and online teams worldwide.

With a focus on creating exceptional experiences for Apple customers, O'Brien and her team strive to establish a strong connection with customers and assist them in discovering products and services that can educate, inspire, and enhance their lives.

Having been with Apple for over 30 years, O'Brien has an extensive background within the company. Prior to her role in Retail, she led the People team, demonstrating her commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. O'Brien was also instrumental in the launch of Apple's first retail stores in 2001 and has played a key role in product launches throughout her tenure, drawing on her experience as a leader in the Supply Chain team.

O'Brien holds a bachelor's degree in Operations Management from Michigan State University and an MBA from San Jose State University. With her deep understanding of Apple's operations, commitment to customer experience, and extensive experience within the company, O'Brien plays a crucial role in shaping Apple's retail strategy and ensuring that Apple's stores continue to provide exceptional service to customers worldwide.

Deirdre O'Brien is an accomplished American businesswoman and the Senior Vice President of Retail and People at Apple Inc. With over three decades of experience at Apple, O'Brien has held various key positions within the company, showcasing her expertise and leadership capabilities.

O'Brien's responsibilities at Apple encompass a wide range of functions, including talent development and Apple University, recruiting, employee relations and experience, business partnership, benefits, compensation, and inclusion and diversity. Her role involves shaping and implementing strategies related to people management and fostering a positive work environment.

Recognized for her significant contributions, O'Brien has been listed among the world's most powerful women in business. In 2019, Fortune ranked her 32nd on their prestigious list, highlighting her influential role within Apple and the industry at large. Additionally, she has been recognized for her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community, featuring in Fast Company's Queer 50 list in both 2021 and 2022, ranking 11th and 12th, respectively.

O'Brien's academic background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Operations Management from Michigan State University, providing her with a solid foundation in managing operational aspects of business. She furthered her education by obtaining an MBA from San Jose State University, enhancing her knowledge and skills in business administration.

With her extensive experience at Apple, versatile skill set, and commitment to fostering an inclusive work culture, Deirdre O'Brien continues to play a pivotal role in driving Apple's success and ensuring the company's ongoing growth and development.

Deirdre O'Brien brings a distinct vision to her role. Her vision revolves around creating exceptional experiences for Apple customers worldwide while fostering a positive and inclusive work environment for Apple employees.

O'Brien's vision emphasizes the connection with Apple's valued customers. She and her team are dedicated to providing unparalleled experiences that go beyond product transactions. Their goal is to help customers discover products and services that not only meet their needs but also educate, inspire, and enrich their lives. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and engagement, O'Brien aims to ensure that every interaction with Apple is memorable and impactful.

In addition to the customer experience, O'Brien places great emphasis on Apple's employees. She recognizes that a motivated and diverse workforce is essential for driving innovation and success. O'Brien's vision involves nurturing talent, fostering professional growth, and creating a supportive environment where employees can thrive. She actively promotes inclusion and diversity within Apple, recognizing that diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making and more innovative solutions.

Furthermore, O'Brien's vision encompasses the integration of technology and physical retail spaces. She understands the evolving landscape of retail and the increasing importance of seamless omnichannel experiences. O'Brien aims to leverage Apple's retail stores and online presence to provide a cohesive and integrated customer journey, where customers can seamlessly transition between the physical and digital realms.