Tesla hires former Apple executive to head retail strategy

Tesla announced today that it has hired former Apple and Gap executive George Blankenship as Vice President of Design and Store Development. Blankenship will be responsible for building Tesla’s retail strategy and network.

“George has a record of building customer-focused stores that revolutionize their industries, and he does it on time and on budget. There is simply no one better, he is the ideal candidate for Tesla,” said Tesla CEO Elon Musk. “With George’s leadership, I have no doubt Tesla will have the best retail experience in the auto industry as we continue to grow and prepare to launch the Model S.”

57-year-old Blankenship brings 30 years of international retail and real estate experience to Tesla.

“Joining Tesla allows me to work with some of the boldest and brightest people on the planet while changing the world for the better, ” said Blankenship. “I’m excited to create a retail experience that is as thrilling as my first drive of the Tesla Roadster.”

– By: Stephen Calogera