As Apple CEO Tim Cook continues to lead the tech giant through its successes and challenges, speculation is mounting about who will take the reins when Cook eventually steps down. Cook succeeded Steve Jobs as CEO in 2011 and has led the tech giant ever since.
On Bloomberg’s recent The Big Take podcast, Mark Gurman joined host David Gura to discuss who the crown might ultimately go to. One prominent figure often cited as a favorite is Jeff Williams, Apple’s current chief operating officer (COO). Interestingly, Cook was COO under Jobs before being named CEO.
According to Gurman, Williams currently runs Apple’s overall operations and is in charge of the company’s supply chain. Often nicknamed “Tim Cook” Tim CookWilliams’ background closely mirrors Cook’s, from his tenure at Apple to his education in the South and his MBA from Duke University. However, just two years younger than Cook and approaching 60, Williams’ age could pose a challenge in succeeding Cook, particularly if Cook plans to extend his tenure for another 3-5 years.
Although Williams remains a strong contender, concerns arise about his age and the need for a long-term CEO who can handle Apple’s future challenges.
Among other potential candidates, Gurman notes that software engineering manager Craig Federighi lacks the business acumen needed to run the entire company. There’s also Deirdre O’Brien, who oversees Apple’s retail operations. “Apple probably wants to try something new for a new era and not rely on other operations or an HR manager,” Gurman said.
Among a host of senior executives approaching retirement age, one name gaining traction is that of John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of hardware engineering.
“He joined Apple’s executive team in 2021. He quickly rose through the ranks. He was vice president in charge of Mac computer engineering. It eventually added the iPad, as well as AirPods. More recently, it added the iPhone and Apple Watch. And now he’s responsible for virtually all of the lucrative hardware for Apple,” Gurman said.
Ternus is increasingly becoming an important face of the company. It is increasingly promoted in their marketing. He deals with regulators in terms of right to repair laws. Gurman added that he even recently played a “branding” role at a conference of business leaders and just this week was asked by Cook to present iPad Air during “Let Loose” online event.
Despite speculation about his potential successors, Cook is under no pressure to step down anytime soon. Facing ongoing challenges such as regulatory oversight and the need for innovation, Cook remains focused on moving Apple forward. The stock price has also been positive during Cook’s tenure.
“And so I think Tim Cook will be the CEO of Apple for as long as he wants and he won’t resign a day before that,” Gurman said.
Read also: Inside Battersea Power Station, where Apple held its first event of its kind for iPad
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