Tim Cook Told Apple CEO John Ternus ‘Don’t Mimic Me’ Before Stepping Aside Ahead of Apple’s Big iPhone Launch: 'I’m Not a Meddler'

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Tim Cook says his first month as executive chair of Apple Inc. has followed the succession plan that moved John Ternus into the CEO role before the company's next major product launch.

Cook transferred Apple's leadership to Ternus on Sept. 1, ending a 15-year run as chief executive and beginning a new role focused on government relations, global policy and strategic support. Speaking to The Independent on Thursday, Cook said the transition had been developed over several years to give Ternus a strong foundation.

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The former CEO deliberately stepped aside before Apple's iPhone Duo launch in early September, letting Ternus lead through a critical product cycle. "I wanted John to have some wind at his back," he said. Cook added that Apple's momentum is closely tied to its product cycle, which is looking "unbelievably great" currently.

Cook said he and Ternus share "an incredible level of trust" and communicate frequently. While he remains available to help whenever Ternus asks, Cook emphasized that he is not involved in Apple's day-to-day management without "meddling" in his successor's leadership. I'm not a meddler," he said.

The former CEO also advised Ternus to establish his own leadership style rather than copy prior executives. He recalled receiving similar advice from Steve Jobs, who emphasized that every leader brings distinct strengths. "Don't mimic me. Just like I didn't mimic Steve," he said.

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Tim Cook Stays Active in Policy and Outreach

While Ternus took over the CEO role on Sept. 1, Cook remains executive chair while preserving relationships with President Donald Trump and the Chinese government. The former CEO said in his latest interview that he is focused on global policy and government relations, advocating for policy changes.

Apple's September filing disclosed a $47 million compensation package for Cook as chair, nearly matching Ternus' new CEO package. The arrangement underscored expectations that Cook would remain closely involved.

On Wednesday, Tim Cook and King Charles III launched Creative Labs in London, a joint initiative with The King's Trust to help young people aged 18 to 30 explore careers in creative industries through workshops and expert-led training. The first cohort of up to 20 participants began sessions this week at Apple Music Hall, with more programs planned over the next year.