Apple Inc. has announced a landmark leadership transition, confirming that Tim Cook will become executive chairman while John Ternus takes over as chief executive officer from 1 September 2026. The decision, approved unanimously by the board, follows a long-term succession strategy aimed at preserving stability at one of the world’s most influential companies.
Cook will remain CEO through the summer, working closely with Ternus to ensure a seamless handover. In his new role, he will continue to shape the company’s strategic direction, with a particular focus on global policy engagement and high-level external relations.
Ternus, currently senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, steps into the role after more than two decades at Apple. Having worked alongside Steve Jobs and under Cook’s leadership, he has been central to the development of key products and is widely regarded as a leader with both deep technical insight and strong organisational trust.
The transition also brings changes to the board, with Arthur Levinson moving into the role of lead independent director after 15 years as chairman. Cook leaves behind a dramatically transformed company, having overseen its rise from a $350 billion valuation in 2011 to around $4 trillion, alongside a near fourfold increase in annual revenue.
