In a major leadership shift, Apple has announced that Tim Cook will step down as Chief Executive Officer, bringing to a close a transformative era that saw the company evolve into one of the most valuable businesses in the world.
Cook, who has led Apple for over a decade following Steve Jobs, will move into the role of Executive Chairman of the company’s board. He will continue as CEO through the summer, with the transition to his successor, John Ternus, set to take effect on 1 September.
Ternus, currently Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, is a long-standing member of the leadership team and has played a key role in shaping the company’s flagship products. His appointment signals continuity, with a strong emphasis on Apple’s hardware-led innovation strategy.
Reflecting on his tenure, Cook described leading Apple as the “greatest privilege” of his life, having overseen a period marked by significant growth, expansion into services, and the company’s rise to a multi-trillion-dollar valuation.
The leadership change comes at a notable time for Apple, following a wave of senior executive exits in late 2025, including leaders across AI, policy, and design functions. As Ternus prepares to take the helm, the focus will be on sustaining Apple’s momentum while navigating an increasingly complex and competitive technology landscape.
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