The UK really has produced ‘more than its fair share’ of top managers working in global companies– particularly in the tech arena. I first came across John Browett in the late 1990s when he was the force behind tesco.com. The service revolutionised online grocery shopping in the UK. Since 2007, Browett has been at the helm of Dixons/PC World during perhaps the most difficult period for anyone attempting to sell white goods and other vanilla-flavour electronics to a hard pressed UK public.
Today it was announced that Browett is leaving to head up Apple Stores in the US. I would guess that was one of the most exciting retail management jobs around at the moment.
Footnote - Dixon's shares opened 5% down which is a pretty good reference for Browett!