Apple hires former boss of Yves Saint Laurent

Paul-DeneveNew York, July 5 : Apple Inc. announced the hiring of the erstwhile CEO of French fashion firm Yves Saint Laurent Paul Deneve as vice president of Special Projects.

"We're thrilled to welcome Paul Deneve to Apple," company spokeswoman Kristin Huguet said in a statement. "He'll be working on special projects as a vice president reporting directly to Tim Cook," CEO of the California-based tech giant.

Deneve, a sales and marketing manager for Apple in Europe between 1990-97, resigned from YSL Tuesday, saying that he was looking for a new opportunity in the tech sector.

The 52-year-old Belgian has also worked for Courreges, Lanvin and Nina Ricci.

Analysts saw Deneve's appointment as a sign that Apple is serious about exploring the possibilities of wearable computing and is alert to the trend of a merging of technology with fashion. (IANS)