Tim Cook's New Role at Apple and His Relationship with Trump
Former Apple CEO Tim Cook will continue to engage with global policies in his new role.
1Tim Cook's New Role
After 15 years, Tim Cook handed over Apple's CEO position to hardware chief John Ternus but isn't leaving the company completely. Starting September 2025, he will serve as chairman of the board with a $2 million annual salary. In this role, he will continue to advise on certain aspects of the company, including relationships with global policymakers. Apple announced Cook's transition in April 2025.
2Special Relationship with Trump
During his tenure, Cook earned the nickname 'Trump whisperer.' In 2019, Trump noted that unlike other tech executives, Cook called him directly. This relationship played a crucial role in tariff negotiations and the CEO transition process. Cook managed relations not only with Trump but also with the Chinese government. According to Bloomberg, these connections are vital due to Apple's complex Asian supply chain.
3$45 Million Equity Award
Cook's new compensation package isn't limited to the $2 million salary. Regulatory filings show he was approved for a $45 million target-value equity award. Cook moves into this position after 15 years as CEO, during which Apple's market capitalization grew from $347 billion to $4.6 trillion. He played a key role not only in products but also in managing government relations.
4$600 Billion US Investment
In February 2025, Apple announced a $500 billion US investment over four years and plans to hire 20,000 employees. By August 2025, this commitment increased by another $100 billion, reaching $600 billion total. The timing was critical as Trump was preparing to impose 100% tariffs on imported semiconductor chips but exempted companies manufacturing in the US.
5India Production Controversy
In May 2025, Apple's expansion of iPhone production in India to reduce reliance on China drew Trump's criticism. Trump claimed he told Cook to stop production in India and manufacture more in the US. Days later, he threatened at least 25% tariffs on iPhones sold in the US but made elsewhere. However, three months later, Cook met with Trump again.
6Custom 'Made in USA' Gift
During a meeting at the Oval Office, Cook presented Trump with a custom 'Made in USA' glass plaque mounted on a 24-karat gold stand. This gesture symbolized Apple's commitment to US manufacturing. Cook's diplomatic move demonstrated his ability to manage delicate balances in Apple's global supply chain while navigating tensions between superpowers.
7Relations with China
Cook also played an active role in managing Apple's relations with China. Early in 2025, when Trump was preparing to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, Cook was among a group of US executives expected to accompany him to Beijing. Apple's supplier network and market share in China make these relations crucial. Cook's policy-focused rather than political approach proved decisive in this process.
8Policy-Focused Leadership
In a March 2025 interview with ABC, Cook summarized his approach: 'I focus on policy, not politics.' When announcing his CEO departure in April 2025, Trump recalled their first meeting on Truth Social, calling it 'a long and very nice relationship.' Cook's diplomatic skills have enabled Apple to manage political risks while maintaining global operations.
Original article: Fortune — Tim Cook'un Apple'daki Yeni Rolü ve Trump ile İlişkileri