Tim Cook

Executive chair, Apple

Tim Cook joined Apple in 1998 and built his career around its worldwide operations.

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Photo: Austin Community CollegeCC BY 2.0 · Displayed in grayscale

At a glance

Tim Cook joined Apple in 1998 and built his career around its worldwide operations. He became CEO in 2011, overseeing new product categories, services and the transition to Apple silicon. In September 2026 he became executive chair as John Ternus took over as CEO.

Current role: Executive chair, Apple
Born: 1 November 1960
Education: Auburn University — industrial engineering; Duke University — MBA
Known for: Apple operations, supply chain and executive leadership
Previously: Apple CEO, 2011–2026; previously COO
Coverage: Consumer technology; operations; AI

Sources checked 16 October 2026. Selected career milestones and biographical references.

Career, in context.

Selected milestones, newest first. Explore earlier career below.

2026
Becomes Apple’s executive chair
John Ternus succeeds him as CEO under the board-approved succession plan.
Source: Apple
2020
Oversees the Mac’s Apple silicon transition
Apple begins replacing Intel processors in Macs during his CEO tenure.
Source: Wikipedia

Show earlier careerHide earlier career · 4 milestones

More than 10 years ago.

2015
Apple Watch goes on sale
The wearable becomes a new product category during his leadership.
Source: Wikipedia
2011
Becomes Apple CEO
Cook succeeds Steve Jobs as chief executive.
Source: Wikipedia
2005
Becomes chief operating officer
He takes responsibility for Apple’s worldwide sales and operations.
Source: Wikipedia
1998
Joins Apple
Cook joins as senior vice president for worldwide operations.
Source: Apple

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