John Ternus Named Apple’s Next CEO: From Hardware Engineering Leader to Successor of Tim Cook

John Ternus is set to succeed Tim Cook as Apple’s chief executive officer, with the transition taking effect on September 1, 2026. Apple announced the leadership change on Monday, confirming that Cook will assume the role of executive chairman of the board while remaining involved in the transition process through the summer.

At 51 years old, Ternus brings over two decades of experience at Apple, having joined the company in 2001. He previously served as senior vice president of hardware engineering, a role in which he oversaw the development of key products across Apple’s portfolio, including multiple generations of iPad, iPhone, AirPods, and the Mac lineup.

Ternus played a central role in Apple’s transition to its custom silicon for Mac computers, beginning with the introduction of the first Apple Silicon-based models in 2020. More recently, he helped introduce the iPhone Air in September 2025 as part of that year’s iPhone lineup and has been a frequent presenter at Apple product events, including announcements for new MacBooks and other hardware.

Cook praised Ternus in a public statement, saying he has “the mind of an engineer, the soul of an innovator, and the heart to lead with integrity and honor.” Ternus expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that he has worked under both Steve Jobs and Tim Cook during his career at Apple and described helping shape products that have changed how people interact with technology as a privilege.

The leadership shift marks Apple’s first CEO transition since Cook succeeded Steve Jobs in 2011. With this change, Ternus becomes Apple’s eighth chief executive officer. Apple’s market capitalization exceeded $4 trillion at the time of the announcement, reflecting growth during Cook’s tenure as CEO.

As part of the transition, Apple’s nonexecutive chairman Arthur Levinson will become the company’s lead independent director when Ternus assumes the CEO role. Ternus will also join Apple’s board of directors upon becoming chief executive.

Apple emphasized that the succession plan reflects continuity in strategy, with Ternus’s long-term internal experience signaling a commitment to maintaining the product-focused approach that has driven the company’s recent financial performance, including yearly profits exceeding $100 billion and record iPhone revenue strengthened by renewed demand in China.