Argus News - Tim Cook To Step Down As Apple CEO After 15 Years; Here's His Full Letter to The Community

Cupertino, Apr 21: In a major leadership transition, Tim Cook has announced he will step down as Chief Executive Officer of Apple after nearly 15 years at the helm, with hardware chief John Ternus set to take over the role.

Cook will continue as CEO until September 1, 2026, before transitioning to the position of Executive Chairman on Apple’s board.

Having taken charge from co-founder Steve Jobs in 2011, Cook led Apple through a period of massive expansion. Under his leadership, the company launched key products and services, including the Apple Watch, Apple Music and Apple TV Plus. Apple also became the first US company to hit a $1 trillion market valuation in 2018, later reaching $4 trillion in 2022 -- up from $350 billion when Cook took over.

Cook Reflects on ‘Best Job in the World’
In a letter to the Apple community, Cook described his tenure as CEO as “the best job in the world,” reflecting on daily messages he received from users.

“You share little pieces of your lives with me… I feel a gratitude that I cannot put into words,” he wrote, adding that leading a company that “ignites imaginations and enriches lives” had been an honour and privilege.

He recalled stories from users about how Apple products impacted their lives -- from health alerts via devices to everyday creativity and productivity.

‘John Ternus Is the Perfect Person’
Endorsing his successor, Cook described John Ternus as “a brilliant engineer and thinker” with over 25 years at Apple.

“He is the perfect person for the job… obsessed with every detail and focused on making products better, bolder, more beautiful, and more meaningful,” Cook wrote, expressing confidence that Apple will reach new heights under Ternus’ leadership.

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‘This Is Not Goodbye’
While stepping down as CEO, Cook made it clear he is not leaving the company entirely.

“This is not goodbye,” he wrote, confirming he will remain actively involved as Executive Chairman.

Concluding his letter, Cook thanked Apple users worldwide.

“A person who grew up in a rural place… got to be the CEO of the greatest company in the world. Thank you for the confidence and kindness you’ve shown me,” Cook wrote.