Apple confirmed that longtime board veteran Arthur Levinson will step down as non‑executive chairman and assume the role of lead independent director. The change coincides with the company’s leadership shuffle that places John Ternus at the helm as CEO and moves Tim Cook into an executive chairman seat. Levinson’s new duties begin on September 1, 2026.

Levinson has guided Apple’s board for more than fifteen years, originally joining in 2000 under Steve Jobs and becoming non‑executive chairman after Jobs’ death. His biotech background—spanning CEO roles at Genentech and Calico—adds a scientific perspective to Apple’s governance. The board expects his oversight to preserve checks and balances among the executive chairman, the new CEO, and shareholders.

By formalizing the lead independent director position, Apple aims to reinforce board independence as it navigates post‑Jobs growth and emerging product cycles. Levinson’s continued presence signals continuity while granting Cook and Ternus clearer operational focus. The transition marks a rare, orderly shift at a company where board changes are typically low‑key.