Tim Cook is set to end his 15-year tenure as Apple CEO on August 31, closing a leadership era that began after Steve Jobs stepped down in 2011.
John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, will become the company’s new chief executive on September 1. Cook will move into the role of executive chairman of Apple’s board.
Apple announced the succession plan in April, after its board unanimously approved the change after a long-term succession planning process.
“It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be the CEO of Apple and to have been trusted to lead such an extraordinary company,” Cook said in the announcement.
Cook joined Apple in 1998 and became CEO in 2011, succeeding Jobs. His tenure saw the company expand its product lineup and strengthen its services business.
Apple launched the Apple Watch, AirPods and Vision Pro during Cook’s leadership. The company also expanded services including Apple Music, Apple Pay and Apple TV.
Cook will continue to have a role at Apple after leaving the CEO position. As executive chairman, he is expected to remain involved in selected areas, including the company’s engagement with policymakers around the world.
Ternus joined Apple in 2001 and currently leads its Hardware Engineering division. He worked closely on major products including the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and AirPods.
Ternus will officially become Apple’s CEO on September 1. Cook will move into the role of executive chairman and will continue supporting selected areas of the company.
August 31 is Cook’s final day as Apple CEO. From September 1, Ternus will lead Apple as the company begins its next phase under new leadership.
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