Tim Cook Closes 15-Year Chapter as Apple CEO, Passing Leadership to John Ternus
After 15 years leading Apple, Tim Cook steps down as CEO and transitions to Executive Chairman, with longtime hardware chief John Ternus taking over the company's leadership.
Tim Cook officially concluded his tenure as Apple's Chief Executive Officer on August 31, 2026, marking the end of a leadership era that began when he succeeded Steve Jobs in 2011. His departure was accompanied by a personal farewell message to employees, reflecting on the company's achievements and the people behind its success.
In the memo, Cook expressed gratitude to Apple's workforce, emphasizing the importance of its shared values, creativity and collaborative culture. He also voiced strong confidence in John Ternus, praising his technical expertise and ability to guide the company's next chapter.
Effective September 1, 2026, Ternus assumes the CEO position after previously serving as Apple's Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. Having joined the company in 2001, he has overseen engineering teams responsible for major products, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. The succession was formally announced in April following unanimous approval from Apple's Board of Directors.
Cook's departure from the CEO role does not mark his exit from Apple. As Executive Chairman, he will continue working from Apple Park, supporting strategic matters and maintaining relationships with policymakers worldwide.
During Cook's leadership, Apple expanded its global operations, strengthened its services business and grew into one of the world's most valuable companies. His transition closes a defining period in Apple's corporate history while placing Ternus at the forefront of its next phase of innovation.
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