Robert Brunner

Apple’s Former Director of Industrial Design, Lead Consulting Designer for Beats by Dr. Dre & Founder of Ammunition

Robert Brunner’s Biography:

Robert Brunner is an internationally recognised designer, technology expert and business leader whose work has shaped some of the world’s most influential consumer products. Best known for serving as Director of Industrial Design at Apple and later designing the iconic Beats by Dr. Dre headphone range, Robert has spent more than four decades at the forefront of innovation. His expertise in product development, branding and user experience has made him a highly sought-after speaker, offering audiences unique insights into design thinking, creativity, leadership and the relationship between technology and human behaviour.

After graduating from San José State University with a degree in Industrial Design in 1981, Robert began his career as a designer and project manager at GVO, Inc. He then co-founded Lunar Design in 1983, helping establish the company as one of the leading design consultancies in the technology sector. In 1990, he joined Apple as Director of Industrial Design, where he led the design direction for all product development and founded Apple’s independent internal design group. Following his departure from Apple in 1997, Robert became a Partner at Pentagram, leading its San Francisco product design team before founding Ammunition in 2007. He also launched the outdoor grill company Fuego and has continued to consult for global brands through his work with Beats by Dr. Dre.

Robert’s achievements have been recognised with 23 Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) Awards, reflecting his significant contribution to modern design. He is also the author of the acclaimed book, ‘Do You Matter? How Great Design Will Make People Love Your Company‘, which explores the role of design in creating meaningful customer experiences and successful businesses.

Alongside his commercial achievements, Robert has dedicated his expertise to social impact initiatives, serving on UNICEF’s Advisory Board to support innovation programmes for children. Through his work with Ammunition, he continues to help organisations transform products, brands and customer experiences. As a speaker, Robert combines practical experience with strategic insight, demonstrating how great design can drive innovation, build loyalty and create lasting business success.

Why Hire Robert Brunner?

Robert Brunner is hired to speak because he offers a rare combination of design excellence, technological expertise and entrepreneurial success. Having led design initiatives at Apple, co-founded pioneering consultancies and helped create globally recognised products, he provides audiences with first-hand insights into innovation, creativity and customer-centred thinking. His presentations explore how design influences business performance, brand value and product success, while drawing upon decades of experience working with some of the world’s most influential companies. Audiences leave with practical strategies for fostering innovation and creating products and experiences that truly resonate with customers.

Robert Brunner’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Robert Brunner’s remarkable career:

• Present – Continues to serve as Founder and Partner of Ammunition, helping global organisations develop innovative products and brands.
• 2016 – Joined UNICEF’s Advisory Board, helping drive innovation initiatives through the KidPower programme.
• 2008 – Expanded Ammunition’s influence as a leading consultancy delivering design and brand solutions to clients worldwide.
• 2007 – Acts as Lead Consulting Designer for Beats by Dr. Dre, contributing to one of the world’s most recognisable audio product ranges.
• 2007 – Founded Ammunition, a San Francisco-based product design and brand development company.
• 1997 – Became a Partner at Pentagram and led the firm’s San Francisco product design team for a decade.
• 1990 – Appointed Director of Industrial Design at Apple, overseeing design direction across the company’s product portfolio.
• 1983 – Co-founded Lunar Design, helping build its reputation as a leading international design consultancy.
• 1981 – Graduated from San José State University with a degree in Industrial Design and began his professional career in product design.