Apple Names John Ternus CEO Effective Sept. 1, 2026; Cook to Become Executive Chairman
John Ternus will succeed Tim Cook as Apple CEO on September 1, 2026, joining the board after leading hardware engineering for key products since 2001. Tim Cook will transition to executive chairman to focus on international policy liaison while Arthur Levinson becomes lead independent director.
1. Succession Plan Approval
Apple’s board unanimously approved a leadership transition effective September 1, 2026, appointing John Ternus as CEO and adding him to the board to ensure a seamless change in executive leadership.
2. Tim Cook’s New Role
Tim Cook will remain chief executive through the summer to oversee the handover before becoming executive chairman, concentrating on international policymaker engagement and long-term strategic initiatives.
3. John Ternus’s Background
John Ternus joined Apple in 2001, advanced to vice president of Hardware Engineering in 2013, and led developments for products like the iPad, AirPods and MacBook Neo, driving innovation in materials and durability.
4. Board Restructuring
Arthur Levinson will shift from non-executive chairman to lead independent director on the same date, reinforcing governance as Ternus joins and Cook transitions to his new role.