Apple Inc. Announces Key Executive Transitions in Legal and Environmental Leadership

Jennifer Newstead, currently the chief legal officer at Meta, will join Apple as a senior vice president in January 2026. She is set to take over the role of general counsel from Kate Adams, who has held the position since 2017. Adams' tenure has been pivotal in advising Apple on critical legal matters while advocating for customer privacy and the company’s right to innovate.

Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, expressed gratitude towards Adams, highlighting her strategic insight and leadership over the years. “Kate has been an integral part of the company for the better part of a decade,” Cook stated. “Her remarkable determination across a myriad of highly complex issues has been invaluable.”

In a strategic move, Newstead will also oversee the Government Affairs organization, a role previously held by Adams. This integration of the Legal and Government Affairs teams reflects the increasing overlap in their functions, especially in the context of global regulatory challenges. Newstead’s comprehensive background in international affairs positions her uniquely to lead this combined organization effectively.

“I couldn’t be more pleased to have Jennifer join our team,” Cook added. “She brings an extraordinary depth of experience and skill to the role, and will advance Apple’s important work all over the world.”

Lisa Jackson, who has been with Apple as vice president for Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, will retire after a remarkable tenure focused on sustainability and corporate responsibility. Cook commended her efforts in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions by over 60 percent since 2015 and her advocacy on various social issues affecting Apple’s users.

Jackson reflected on her time at Apple, stating, “It has been a true honor to lead such important work here. I am incredibly grateful to the teams I’ve had the privilege to lead at Apple, for the innovations they’ve helped create and inspire.”

Kate Adams, who will step back from her role later in 2026, also shared her sentiments. “It has been one of the great privileges of my life to be a part of Apple,” she expressed, emphasizing her pride in the progress made during her tenure. Adams will continue to work closely with the Government Affairs team until her retirement, ensuring a smooth transition.

Newstead’s extensive experience includes serving as the legal adviser for the U.S. Department of State, where she played a crucial role in advising on legal issues affecting U.S. foreign relations. Her impressive credentials also include positions at the White House Office of Management and Budget, the Department of Justice, and a decade as a partner at Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP. Newstead is a distinguished graduate of Harvard University and Yale Law School.

As Apple continues to lead the world in innovation with its diverse range of products and services, these executive transitions are expected to strengthen its commitment to both legal integrity and corporate responsibility. With Newstead at the helm of the Legal and Government Affairs teams, Apple is poised to navigate the complex landscape of global regulations and maintain its reputation as a leader in technology and sustainability.

Apple remains dedicated to its mission of making the best products on Earth while striving to leave the world better than it found it, a vision that continues to resonate throughout the company’s operations and corporate ethos.