Apple Welcomes John Ternus as New CEO, Stepping into the Role as of Today

Today, John Ternus officially steps in as the new CEO of Apple, taking over for longtime leader Tim Cook. This starts a new chapter following Cook’s 15-year tenure as CEO.

The leadership change took effect September 1, with Cook moving into the role of executive chairman. Apple announced the succession in April, describing it as the result of a long-term succession planning process. The transition closes one of the longest CEO runs in Apple’s history. Cook took over from Steve Jobs in 2011.

The transition is also solidified on Apple’s leadership page. On the official website, Ternus is now listed as CEO. “John Ternus is the CEO of Apple and serves on its board of directors,” the page reads. Apple’s page then goes on to reflect on Ternus’ background within the company. Ternus joined Apple in 2001 and has spent much of his career overseeing hardware development. His work has included products such as the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and AirPods, giving him a deep understanding of the hardware side of Apple’s business.

Ternus later joined Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering in 2021. Over the years, Ternus has overseen hardware engineering as vice president of the sector. “John has led much of the company’s focus in areas like reliability and durability, introducing new techniques that have made Apple products remarkably resilient,” it’s stated.

Cook isn’t going far, however. As executive chairman, he is expected to remain involved with Apple while assisting with certain aspects of the business, including relationships with policymakers around the world. Apple has also said Cook worked closely with Ternus throughout the summer to prepare for the transition. That handoff has been visible around Apple Park in recent weeks.

Apple held a farewell gathering for Cook attended by senior executives and close colleagues, with Ternus among those paying tribute to the outgoing CEO. Cook also sent his final message to Apple employees as CEO on August 31, reflecting on his 15 years leading the company before beginning his new role.

Now, after years of appearing alongside Cook during product launches, Ternus is filling big shoes. The transition may mark an exciting time for the company in the years to follow. The timing puts him immediately in charge as Apple enters one of its busiest periods of the year, with the next generation of iPhone hardware expected to headline the company’s upcoming product cycle.