Who was Apple's CEO immediately before Tim Cook?

Steve Jobs was Apple's CEO immediately before Tim Cook. Jobs resigned as chief executive on August 24, 2011, and Apple's board named Cook as his successor the same day.

Jobs had co-founded Apple and returned to lead the company in 1997 after Apple acquired NeXT, the computer company he had founded after leaving Apple. During his second tenure, Apple introduced products including the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad, transforming the company's business and public image.

Cook was already deeply involved in Apple's operations before becoming CEO. He joined Apple in 1998 and became chief operating officer, overseeing much of the company's supply chain and manufacturing strategy. He also served as acting CEO during several of Jobs's medical leaves, so the transition was planned and familiar internally. Jobs became Apple's board chairman after resigning and died on October 5, 2011.