### Deirdre O’Brien: A Force in Retail and People Management at Apple
In a notable acknowledgment of her leadership and impact, Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Retail and People, has once again secured a spot on *Fortune*’s esteemed list of the Most Powerful Women in Business for 2025. This achievement marks her seventh consecutive year on the list, highlighting her ongoing influence in a fiercely competitive arena where merely 20 of the Fortune 500 CEOs are women.
#### An Impressive Career at Apple
O’Brien’s association with Apple spans an impressive 35 years, during which she has been instrumental in crafting the company’s retail strategy and human resources policies. As noted by *Fortune*, she is not only tasked with overseeing Apple’s global retail growth—including new store launches in emerging markets—but also with essential areas such as training, development, diversity, inclusion, and employee benefits.
In March 2025, O’Brien resumed her position as Apple’s chief people manager, a role she had previously occupied from 2017 to 2023. This dual role of overseeing both retail and human resources showcases her adaptability and the confidence that Apple’s leadership has in her. Her educational background features a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and an MBA from San Jose State University, both of which have certainly bolstered her effective management approach.
#### Major Accomplishments and Hurdles
O’Brien’s tenure has encountered its share of challenges. When she took the reins of the retail division from Angela Ahrendts, she was faced with the formidable challenge of rejuvenating iPhone sales via Apple’s retail channels while navigating an evolving labor landscape. The rise of unionization movements within retail locations and the long-term ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic have necessitated O’Brien to continually revise her strategies.
Over the past year, O’Brien has facilitated the opening of numerous stores around the world, including in the U.S., China, Spain, and Sweden, alongside the introduction of Apple’s inaugural retail space in Malaysia. Looking forward, additional store openings are anticipated in India, Japan, and the UAE, further reinforcing Apple’s international retail presence.
#### The Future of Retail and People Management
As O’Brien persists in steering Apple’s retail and people strategies, her commitment to diversity and inclusion remains a top priority. The technology sector has faced criticism regarding its lack of representation, and O’Brien’s leadership is essential in cultivating an inclusive environment that draws in and retains varied talent.
Her return to the lead of the People team occurs at a pivotal moment as organizations globally rethink their workplace practices in response to the pandemic. O’Brien’s experience and acumen will be crucial in navigating these shifts, guaranteeing that Apple continues to be a sought-after workplace while also advancing retail accomplishments.
#### Conclusion
Deirdre O’Brien’s recognition as one of the Most Powerful Women in Business is a reflection of her outstanding leadership and the meaningful contributions she has made to Apple and the broader tech landscape. As she guides the company through changing market dynamics and workplace issues, her influence will undoubtedly shape the future of retail and human resources at one of the world’s most valuable enterprises.
