Tim Cook took Apple's market cap from under $350B in 2011 to $4.6T today, a 2,736% total return, and annual revenue from $157B in FY 2012 to ~$477B in FY 2026 (Ryan Vlastelica/Bloomberg)

Apple's profit skyrocketed more than fourfold to US$112 billion during Tim Cook's leadership as CEO. Upon assuming the role of CEO, Cook steered clear of trying to replicate Steve Jobs' legacy, instead following Jobs' advice to "do the right thing." Under Cook's guidance, Apple transformed from a US$350 billion company to a US$4.5 trillion behemoth, achieving remarkable growth in sales and profit.

Cook's strategy focused on leveraging Apple's supply chain and operations to expand the company's reach to a vast customer base, generating recurring revenue. In the AI era, Apple's hardware chief John Ternus will take the reins from Cook, who will become executive chairman, addressing Apple's dealings with policymakers amidst strained relations with the US and China.

The transition reflects Cook's pivotal 15-year tenure, during which Apple's annual sales grew from US$108 billion to US$416 billion, and yearly profits expanded from US$108 billion to US$112 billion. Cook's business acumen and emphasis on supply chain excellence paved the way for Apple's success, while his values-driven culture fostered consumer loyalty and substantial revenue growth.