Apple is taking a major step in shaping its corporate culture with the appointment of its first Chief People Officer, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday. Carol Surface, formerly of Medtronic, will be joining the technology giant to head its human resources department. This new executive position comes after years of the iPhone maker being an outlier among large tech firms by not having an individual responsible for overseeing its HR operations.

In an email to employees, Apple CEO Tim Cook said the company had been considering the hiring of a new HR leader since Deirdre O’Brien, the company’s top HR executive, took on additional responsibilities in 2019 as the top leader for the company’s retail operations. Cook said the new appointment will help Apple in providing an even better experience for its employees.

Carol Surface brings to Apple a wealth of experience in HR and talent management, having worked at Medtronic for over a decade. She has a proven track record of creating a positive and inclusive work environment and has been instrumental in attracting and retaining top talent.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Apple has managed to steer clear of significant layoffs and has continued to invest in its workforce. However, the company has slowed its pace of hiring, reflecting the uncertainty brought on by the global crisis. Additionally, the company has faced employee pushback over its requirement that they work in the office at least three days a week.

The appointment of Carol Surface as Apple’s first Chief People Officer is a clear indication of the company’s commitment to investing in its workforce and creating a culture of inclusivity and growth. With her experience and expertise, she will play a crucial role in ensuring that Apple remains a great place to work for its employees, and continues to attract and retain top talent.

The addition of Carol Surface to Apple’s executive team is a positive step towards further enhancing the company’s commitment to its employees. With her leadership and experience, Apple is well-positioned to provide its workforce with an even better experience and maintain its status as a leading tech company.