In 1998, Steve Jobs convinced a 37-year-old Tim Cook to join near-bankrupt Apple

Tim Cook stepped down as Apple’s chief executive on August 31, 2026, marking the end of a 15-year tenure that saw the company grow from a struggling technology firm into a global powerhouse valued at over $4 trillion. His departure coincided with the appointment of John Ternus, previously senior vice president of hardware engineering, as the new CEO. Cook transitioned to the role of executive chairman of the board, effective September 1, 2026. During his final days in the position, Cook emphasized the importance of Apple’s culture and the collective effort of its employees, while passing the baton to Ternus, a hardware-focused executive. Cook’s journey at Apple began in March 1998, when he joined the company as senior vice president of worldwide operations. At the time, Apple was on the brink of collapse, with declining morale and a reputation as an unattractive employer in Silicon Valley. Steve Jobs, who had recently returned to Apple, persuaded Cook to leave his post at Compaq, the leading personal computer manufacturer, and take on a role at the struggling tech giant. Cook had initially resisted Apple’s recruitment efforts but ultimately met with Jobs, who outlined a bold vision for transforming the company. This included the development of the iMac G3, a groundbreaking design that would become a symbol of Apple’s resurgence. Cook’s decision to join Apple defied conventional wisdom and the advice of his peers. At the time, Compaq was the dominant force in the PC market, and many questioned whether joining Apple would be a career misstep. However, Cook believed that Apple presented a unique opportunity to make a significant impact. His background in operations and supply chain management proved instrumental in turning around the company’s fortunes. Under his leadership, Apple’s supply chain became one of the most efficient in the world, enabling the company to scale production and deliver innovative products consistently. Over the course of his tenure, Cook oversaw the launch of numerous iconic products, including the Apple Watch, AirPods, and significantly enhanced versions of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. These innovations helped solidify Apple’s position as a leader in consumer electronics and software integration. Cook also played a crucial role in expanding Apple’s services division, which now includes the App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud, contributing substantially to the company’s revenue streams. On his final day as CEO, Cook issued a heartfelt memo to Apple employees, expressing gratitude for their support and acknowledging the significance of the moment. He emphasized that Apple’s culture and the shared sense of purpose among its workforce were the true drivers of its success. Cook also highlighted the legacy left by Steve Jobs, whose vision of creating impactful products continued to influence Apple’s mission. Despite stepping down from his role, Cook assured employees that he would remain actively engaged with the company, focusing on managing relationships with governments in Washington and Beijing amid increasing regulatory scrutiny. Ternus, who assumes the CEO role, brings a different perspective to Apple’s future. Known for his expertise in hardware engineering, Ternus has overseen the development of several recent product lines, including the ultra-thin iPhone Air and the more affordable MacBook Neo. His appointment signals a potential shift in focus toward hardware innovation, particularly in response to evolving consumer demands and technological advancements. With Cook’s transition to executive chairman, Apple is positioned to navigate the complexities of the AI era while maintaining its commitment to excellence in product design and user experience.