Former Burberry CEO Angela Ahrendts – who will soon assume her new position as Apple’s Senior Vice President in charge of the company’s retail and online sales – will be made an honorary Dame of the British Empire for her restoration of the Burberry brand.
MacRumors notes that because Ahrendts is an American, she will not receive the honor from the Queen at Buckingham Palace, but will instead be honored at a small ceremony to be held today at Department of Business, Innovation and Skills in Westminister. The UK’s business secretary Vince Cable will act as the Master of Ceremonies.
Ahrendts – born in Indiana – also won’t be allowed to use the title Dame, only the initials DBE (Dame of the British Empire) at the end of her name.
The Daily Mail reports that Mr. Cable will pay tribute to the mother of three, and will describe her as a “landmark figure in business.” and a “powerful role model to the next generation of young British talent.”
He will say: ‘She has revitalised this iconic British brand with flair and cutting edge innovation, allied with sound commercial acumen.’
Ahrendts is not the first Apple executive to receive such an honor, as Apple’s Jony Ive received knighthood in 2011, an honor he described as “absolutely thrilling.” Steve Jobs had also been set to receive honorary knighthood, however his nomination was reportedly blocked by Prime Minister at the time, Gordon Brown, reportedly for political reasons.
