Apple is undergoing a significant leadership reshuffle, with veteran executive Phil Schiller transitioning from his role overseeing the App Store and events. Schiller, who has been a pivotal figure at Apple for decades, is reportedly moving into an "Apple Fellow" position, a senior title reserved for individuals who have made substantial contributions to the company.
Schiller's New Role and App Store Leadership
Phil Schiller's departure from his day-to-day executive responsibilities marks a notable shift. Having joined Apple in 1987 and taking charge of the App Store in 2015, his influence has been extensive. While he will remain an Apple employee and continue to work on unspecified projects, this move is widely seen internally as a transition towards retirement.
With Schiller stepping back, Carson Oliver is anticipated to take the helm of App Store operations. Oliver brings over 14 years of experience within Apple, having spent his entire career dedicated to the App Store business. Furthermore, the App Store's oversight is reportedly shifting from Apple's marketing department to its services division, led by senior executive Eddy Cue, who also oversees Apple Music, Apple TV+, and iCloud.
John Ternus Assumes CEO Role Amid Broader Changes
These changes coincide with John Ternus officially taking over as Apple's new CEO, following Tim Cook's reported departure. Ternus faces the immediate challenge of building a new leadership team and promoting a younger generation of executives to manage Apple's core businesses. This period of transition extends beyond Schiller's move.
Several other high-profile executives have recently left or are expected to leave Apple:
- Jeff Williams: Former Chief Operating Officer, retired in December after 27 years.
- Lisa Jackson: Led environmental, policy, and social initiatives, announced retirement in December.
- Kate Adams: Apple's General Counsel, announced departure around the same time.
- Jennifer Bailey: Head of Apple Pay for over 20 years, expected to retire in October.
- Paul Meade: Executive responsible for the Vision Pro, left in June to join OpenAI.
The numerous executive transitions underscore a new era for Apple as John Ternus steps into the CEO position, tasked with steering the company through these significant leadership changes and shaping its future direction.