Apple is undergoing a significant leadership transition as Tim Cook steps down from his role as CEO, with John Ternus set to take over. According to the official announcement, Tim Cook will assume the position of executive chairman of Apple's board of directors, while John Ternus, currently senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, will become Apple's next chief executive officer effective September 1, 2026.
Shared History with Steve Jobs
Interestingly, both Tim Cook and John Ternus have worked alongside the late co-founder Steve Jobs, whose influence continues to shape the company. John Ternus joined Apple in 2001 as part of the product design team when Jobs was CEO. At that time, Tim Cook was serving as Apple's Senior Vice President for Worldwide Operations.
Tim Cook's Reflection on Steve Jobs' Advice
Recently, Tim Cook reflected on the advice Jobs gave him before he took over as CEO in 2011. Cook shared that Jobs told him something simple but powerful: never try to copy him. Instead, Jobs encouraged him to do what he believed was right. "[Jobs'] advice to me was 'Never ask what I would do, just do the right thing,'" Cook told CBS Sunday Morning in a recent interview.
Cook described this advice as a "gift," saying it removed the pressure of constantly wondering what Jobs would have done. This allowed him to focus on being himself and leading Apple in his own way. He said that after receiving this guidance, he decided to "be the best version" of himself while staying true to Apple's core values. Cook also highlighted how Jobs was deeply focused on collaboration and excellence. He noted that Jobs believed when people work together and openly debate ideas, the results become better. This culture of discussion and high standards, Cook said, remains a key part of Apple even today.
John Ternus on Working Under Steve Jobs
Incoming CEO John Ternus also spoke about his time at Apple and how Jobs influenced his journey. In the official announcement, Ternus expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the company forward. He noted that he has spent almost his entire career at Apple and was fortunate to have worked under Steve Jobs. He also credited Tim Cook as a mentor who helped guide him through the years. Ternus said it has been a privilege to be part of creating products and experiences that have changed how people interact with the world.
"I am profoundly grateful for this opportunity to carry Apple's mission forward," said Ternus. "Having spent almost my entire career at Apple, I have been lucky to have worked under Steve Jobs and to have had Tim Cook as my mentor. It has been a privilege to help shape the products and experiences that have changed so much of how we interact with the world and with one another. I am filled with optimism about what we can achieve in the years to come, and I am so happy to know that the most talented people on earth are here at Apple, determined to be part of something bigger than any one of us. I am humbled to step into this role, and I promise to lead with the values and vision that have come to define this special place for half a century."
