John Browett to head Apple's retail business

customer service, to lead the iPad maker's global retail expansion, The Times of India reveals.

Apple chief Tim Cook, making his first high-profile hire since taking the helm of the world's largest technology company, lured the well-regarded industry executive to fill a critical post once held by Ron Johnson.

The Sydney Morning Herald says Browett has served as CEO of Dixons since 2007. During his tenure, the company continued an aggressive expansion in Europe.

It has about 1 200 stores and is Europe's second-largest electronics retailer, after Germany's Media Market.

The apparent gap between that aesthetic and the minimalist, elegant look and feel of Apple stores led some observers to wonder whether Browett's approach might clash with Apple's, The Los Angeles Times notes.

“Our retail stores are all about customer service, and John shares that commitment like no one else we've met,” Cook said in a statement.