Tim Cook, who recently transitioned from his role as Apple’s chief executive to the position of executive chair, has secured a compensation package valued at approximately $47 million. This package comprises a $2 million base salary complemented by $45 million in stock. Notably, half of the stock award is contingent upon meeting specific performance benchmarks, while the other half is scheduled to vest over a span of four years.
John Ternus, who has taken over the reins as Apple’s CEO from Cook, will earn a base salary of $3 million along with a stock award valued at $55 million. A significant portion of Ternus’s compensation is also tied to performance metrics, reflecting Apple’s ongoing emphasis on aligning executive rewards with company success.
During his time as CEO, Cook’s earnings surpassed $74 million in 2025, a period marked by Apple’s remarkable growth, culminating in a market valuation of around $4.7 trillion. As executive chair, Cook’s focus will shift towards managing Apple’s external affairs. This includes nurturing the company’s relationships with governments, policymakers, and key international markets, leveraging his extensive experience and network.
Ternus, who has been with Apple for a substantial period and formerly led the hardware engineering division, now assumes responsibility for steering the company’s product strategy and operational management as the new CEO. His appointment signals a continuation of Apple’s focus on innovation and maintaining its leadership in the tech industry.