Apple Inc is hiring Dixons CEO John Browett, who drove a recent turnaround at the UK electricals retailer, to lead the iPad maker's retail expansion.

Browett, who has been the boss at Dixons since 2007, was previously CEO of Tesco PLC's successful online shopping site.

At Apple, which last week posted quarterly results ahead of market expectations, Browett will be responsible for the company's retail strategy and the expansion of its stores around the world from the current total of around 300.