John Ternus is now the CEO of Apple, marking the first leadership change at one of the world’s most valuable companies since 2011. His first day at the helm begins as Tim Cook shifts into a new role on the board.
Cook, who led Apple for more than a decade, will remain with the company as executive chairman. In a farewell letter to employees, he reflected on the company’s culture, writing, “This place is proof that culture triumphs over everything. We share a belief that what we build matters, and that we have both the opportunity and the responsibility to leave the world better than we found it.”
The Challenges Ahead for Ternus
Ternus inherits an Apple navigating a fast-changing landscape. The rise of AI has driven shortages of RAM and other components, adding pressure to the company’s supply chain. On top of that, the political and economic environment continues to grow more complex.
He also takes charge without several longtime executives who worked alongside Cook and Steve Jobs. Among them is Phil Schiller, who is stepping down from his role leading the App Store, according to reports. Schiller will continue as an Apple Fellow even after handing off his day-to-day responsibilities overseeing the App Store and Apple events.
How Apple’s Leadership Has Changed
Several other shifts accompany the transition at the top. The role of SVP of government affairs, previously held by Katherine Adams, has been fully vacated. Some of those responsibilities are being distributed to Jennifer Newstead and to Cook in his new capacity. Former CFO Luca Maestri is no longer listed on the leadership team after moving into the role of VP of corporate services in 2024.
The reshaping of Apple’s senior team means the company now presents a noticeably different lineup than the one that operated under Cook for years. New faces are set to take on more prominent public roles as the company enters this next chapter.
What Comes Next
The first major Apple hardware event under Ternus is set for September 9th. The company is expected to introduce new iPhones, including a foldable model referred to as an “Ultra.” The event will offer an early look at Apple’s product direction and introduce the executives who will represent the company going forward.
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Image: theverge.com
