Apple retail chief Ron Johnson takes his empire-building genius to J.C. Penney

You may not know the name Ron Johnson, but you’re definitely familiar with his work — this is the man who built Apple’s retail empire . Eleven years ago Jobs brought Johnson on to create the first Apple store, stealing him away from his position at Target. Now the man who brought you the Genius Bar and roaming, iPhone-wielding sales reps is moving on, and taking his expertise to the department store stalwart J.C. Penney. A spokesperson for the Cupertino crew told All Things D that the company was already searching for his replacement, but we’re more interested in what Johnson will be doing with the shopping mall staple when he takes over as CEO on November 1st. We can only imagine that iPad-based virtual fitting rooms and desks of Jean-iuses will be helping you pick out your next pair of Levis. PR after the break. Continue reading Apple retail chief Ron Johnson takes his empire-building genius to J.C. Penney Apple retail chief Ron Johnson takes his empire-building genius to J.C. Penney originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:42:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds . Permalink

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