Burberry chief executive Angela Ahrendts to join Apple

PanARMENIAN.Net - Burberry chief executive Angela Ahrendts will leave the luxury goods firm next year to join technology giant Apple, according to BBC News.

Ahrendts has been with the luxury brand for almost a decade, and has been credited with turning it into a globally recognized firm. She will be replaced by chief creative officer Christopher Bailey, who has been in the role for six years.

Ahrendts said it was "an honor" to have worked at Burberry.

"Burberry is in brilliant shape. I am confident that Christopher, as one of this generation's greatest visionaries, will continue to lead Burberry to new heights," she said.

Christopher Bailey said he was "moved and humbled" to take on the chief executive role. He will also retain his existing chief creative officer role. "We have a clear strategy to build on, an increasingly powerful brand and an inspiring management team," he added.

Ahrendts and Bailey will work together over the coming months to try to assure a smooth transition, the firm said.

Burberry chairman Sir John Peace described Ahrendts departure as "a natural progression". "I have no doubt that Christopher's vision and leadership, with the excellent management team in place, will keep Burberry on the forefront creatively, digitally and financially," he said.

The British fashion brand is one of the UK's most successful luxury exports.