Business & Finance

Former chief executives Tim Cook and Warren Buffett take on advisory roles

Business Insider reports that the corporate leaders have stepped aside while remaining influential across their companies.

Updated Sep 8, 2026 · 16:47 UTC1 reports

The short version

Tim Cook has stepped down as Apple chief executive after 15 years to become executive chair, succeeded by John Ternus.[Business Insider]
Warren Buffett ended his tenure as Berkshire Hathaway chief executive, with Greg Abel succeeding him in the leadership role.[Business Insider]
Cook is set to receive $45 million in target compensation for fiscal 2027 before bonuses, while Buffett continues consulting on major decisions.[Business Insider]
Governance observers caution that lingering predecessors must avoid acting as shadow leaders to ensure clean transitions.[Business Insider]

Tim Cook resigned as Apple chief executive after 15 years to serve as executive chair, while John Ternus took over as chief executive.[Business Insider]
Cook's target compensation for fiscal 2027 is set at $45 million before cash bonuses.[Business Insider]
Warren Buffett ended his run as Berkshire Hathaway chief executive, succeeded by Greg Abel.[Business Insider]
Buffett built an Alphabet position that became Berkshire's third-largest stock holding, valued at about $38 billion at the end of June.[Business Insider]

Whether predecessors will avoid acting as shadow chief executives and causing governance complications remains unproven.[Business Insider]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.