Photo Credit: Getty Images
Apple has named John Ternus as its next chief executive officer, effective September 1. He will succeed Tim Cook, who is transitioning to the role of executive chairman after a 15-year tenure at the helm. In a news release on Monday, Cook described leading the company as the "greatest privilege" of his life. The move marks the end of one of the most successful CEO runs in the technology industry.
"I love Apple with all of my being, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with a team of such ingenious, innovative, creative, and deeply caring people who have been unwavering in their dedication to enriching the lives of our customers and creating the best products and services in the world,” Cook said.
“I am profoundly grateful for this opportunity to carry Apple’s mission forward," incoming CEO Ternus said.
About 15 years Cook's junior, Ternus has worked on Apple's design team since 2001, and the company said he was "instrumental" to product lines such as the iPhone and AirPods.
"Cook will continue in his role as CEO through the summer as he works closely with Ternus on a smooth transition," Apple said.
Under Cook's stewardship, Apple shares appreciated more than 1,700%. Apple's market value is currently more than $4 trillion, making it the third most valuable public company in the world, behind only Nvidia and Google owner Alphabet.
Apple shares fell less than 1% in after-hours trading on Monday.
The CEO transition is the first since Apple named Tim Cook as Steve Jobs' replacement for the top job in 2011. Before becoming Apple's chief executive, Cook served as Jobs' right-hand man and was the architect of Apple's global supply chain.
Taking over from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, Cook struck a lower profile than his larger-than-life predecessor but continued to build the company’s core businesses as it also expanded into other areas.
In recent years, Apple has struggled with the adoption of artificial intelligence. At the end of 2025, its artificial intelligence chief left the company. Apple has also delayed the rollout of a more intelligent AI-powered Siri multiple times.
However, when it came to other challenges such as dealing with the Trump administration and tariffs, Tim Cook successfully dodged many of the high duties while fostering a relationship with Trump personally.
