Apple Hires Ex-YSL Ceo

Apple Inc. (Cupertino, Calif.) has hired Paul Deneve, formerly ceo of the Yves Saint Laurent fashion group, as a vp working on “special projects.”

It was unclear exactly what special projects Deneve will be overseeing, but he will be reporting directly to ceo Tim Cook.

Deneve joined Yves Saint Laurent in 2011 after holding senior positions at fashion brands Courreges, Nina Ricci and Lanvin. He had worked in sales and marketing for Apple in Europe during the 1990s.

Apple is still looking for someone to head its retail operations, following the departure of Ron Johnson for JC Penny Co. Inc. (Plano, Texas) and the 2012 ouster of his successor, John Browett, after less than a year on the job.