Is Tim Cook A-List?

Joins Apple as SVP Operations

Cook leaves Compaq to join Apple, recruited by Steve Jobs to overhaul the company's manufacturing and supply chain. His operational expertise helps Apple achieve profitability after years of losses.

iPhone Launch Success

As COO, Cook plays crucial role in iPhone production and supply chain management. The iPhone's success transforms Apple and establishes Cook as Jobs's most trusted lieutenant.

Becomes Apple CEO

Cook succeeds Steve Jobs as CEO, inheriting massive expectations and skepticism about following a visionary founder. He receives compensation package potentially worth over $400 million, signaling board confidence.

Publicly Comes Out

Cook becomes first openly gay CEO of a Fortune 500 company, writing powerful essay about his sexuality. This courageous move enhances his influence beyond business, making him an important LGBTQ+ advocate.

Apple Reaches $1 Trillion Valuation

Under Cook's leadership, Apple becomes first U.S. company to reach $1 trillion market cap. His focus on services revenue and operational excellence proves doubters wrong about succeeding Jobs.

Vision Pro Launch

Cook oversees launch of Apple Vision Pro, the company's first major new product category since Apple Watch. Though sales are modest, it demonstrates Apple's continued innovation ambitions under his tenure.

Apple's Steady Leader

Cook maintains Apple's position as world's most valuable company, with market cap exceeding $3 trillion. While not as visionary as Jobs, his operational mastery and strategic focus on services have driven unprecedented financial success.