Tim Cook

Who is Tim Cook?

Answer: Tim Cook is a business executive widely known for serving as Apple’s chief operating officer. He took over as CEO in 2011, shortly before Steve Jobs died of pancreatic cancer. For over a decade, Cook has helped transform the Apple brand, doubling its profits and revenue as well as increasing its market value to $1.9 trillion.

Outside of Apple, Cook engages in numerous charitable initiatives and plans to donate the majority of his personal fortune. He also enjoys fitness activities and prioritizes his health.

What did Tim Cook do before Apple?

Answer: Before joining Apple, Cook graduated from Auburn University and received his master’s degree from Duke University in 1988. His first job in the technology sector was at IBM, where he rose to the position of Director of North American Fulfillment. After 12 years at IBM, Cook left to become chief operating officer of Intelligent Electronics and then moved to a vice president role at Compaq. His time at Compaq was brief; he left after six months to work for Steve Jobs at Apple.

Is Tim Cook leaving Apple?

Answer: Tim Cook announced on April 20, 2026 that he would be stepping down as CEO of Apple. He will transition to executive chairman of the company’s board of directors.

Who is replacing Tim Cook as CEO?

Answer: Apple’s senior vice president of hardware engineering, John Ternus, is set to take over as CEO. He will assume the role on September 1, 2026 and will also join the board of directors.

Before joining Apple, Ternus worked as a mechanical engineer at Virtual Research Systems. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Pennsylvania. He joined Apple’s product design team in 2001 and became vice president of hardware engineering in 2013. Eight years later, he joined the executive team as senior vice president of hardware engineering.