September 9, 1999: Steve Jobs Joins the Gap Board of Directors

Noted turtleneck-and-bluejeans wearer Steve Jobs' skills were in high demand once he became famous for turning Apple around. One place that wanted his advice was the clothing retailer, the Gap.

Calling Steve "one of the most innovative product developers and marketers of our time," a Gap executive welcomed Steve's addition to the board of directors. And stockholders hoped he could help turn around flat sales at the Gap's core stores.

It is unknown just what influence being on the board of a multi-retail, brick-and-mortar store outlet had on Steve's decision to open Apple stores, but he got a good look at mall-style retailing when he joined the board of directors of the Gap this day in 1999.