Apple’s hardware chief, John Ternus, has emerged as the top internal candidate to take over as CEO from Tim Cook, especially amid significant leadership changes that raise questions about who might replace Cook when he retires.
Cook, who is 65, has led Apple since he succeeded co-founder Steve Jobs in 2011.
While he may not be planning to leave imminently, Cook has suggested a preference for a successor from within the organization, allowing him to mentor them for future leadership.
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During an all-hands meeting in January, Cook informed employees that he dedicates “a lot of time” to considering Apple’s leadership pipeline over the coming decade and beyond, indicating a methodical approach to succession planning as the company approaches its 50th anniversary, according to Bloomberg.
“As individuals reach a certain age, retirement becomes inevitable for some. Our responsibility is to ensure that Apple continues to thrive,” he reportedly remarked.
Currently, Ternus, 50, holds the position of senior vice president of hardware engineering and is responsible for the development of Apple’s key products, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, which generate the bulk of the company’s revenue. A veteran Apple leader, he has overseen significant devices and assumed greater responsibilities since stepping into his current role in 2021.
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In recent times, Apple has raised Ternus’ visibility, with him leading product launches and media interactions that are typically handled by Cook. His role has also expanded to encompass the supervision of a robotics unit that is working on new devices.
In that same meeting, Cook recognized several high-level changes, including the retirement of the chief operating officer and transitions for the finance chief and general counsel. Additionally, several prominent executives, including those specializing in artificial intelligence and user interfaces, departed late last year.
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(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)
