Dothan, Ala. — Apple Inc. announced a major leadership change, with Alabama native Tim Cook set to become executive chairman as part of a planned transition later this year.
The company said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, will take over as chief executive officer effective September 1, 2026. The move was unanimously approved by Apple’s board and follows what officials described as a long-term succession plan.
Cook, who was born in Mobile, Alabama and raised in Robertsdale, Alabama, will remain CEO through the summer to help guide the transition. In his new role, he is expected to focus on broader company efforts, including engagement with policymakers around the world.
“It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be the CEO of Apple,” Cook said. “I love Apple with all of my being… and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with a team… dedicated to enriching the lives of our customers.”
Cook also voiced strong support for his successor, calling Ternus “a visionary” and “without question the right person to lead Apple into the future.”
Ternus, who has spent nearly his entire career at Apple, said he is “profoundly grateful” for the opportunity and credited both Cook and Steve Jobs for shaping his leadership.
Cook joined Apple in 1998 and became CEO in 2011. During his tenure, the company launched major products and services including Apple Watch, AirPods and Apple Vision Pro, while expanding platforms like iCloud, Apple Pay and Apple Music.
A graduate of Auburn University and Duke University, Cook has long been one of Alabama’s most prominent business figures.
The leadership transition is expected to take effect September 1.
