Tim Cook's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 17, 2026

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Tim Cook. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Tim Cook is the CEO of Apple, a position he assumed in August 2011 after Steve Jobs resigned. He initially joined Apple in 1998 as Senior Vice President for Worldwide Operations and later became Vice President for Worldwide Sales and Operations. Before becoming CEO, he served as the company's Chief Operating Officer. Cook's leadership has continued Apple's success in the technology industry.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1995: Apple's Revenue

In 1995, Apple's revenue was $11 billion.

1998: Apple's Revenue

In 1998, Apple's revenue was less than $6 billion.

September 2011: Rescuing Apple from its Death Spiral

In September 2011, Tim Cook and Steve Jobs were credited with rescuing Apple from its death spiral, increasing its revenue from $6 billion in 1998 to $100 billion.

2011: Taking Over Apple

In 2011, Tim Cook took over Apple, leading to significant growth in revenue, profit, and market value.

2012: Appearance on Time 100 List

In 2012, Tim Cook appeared on the Time 100, Time's annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

October 2014: Publicly Coming Out as Gay

In October 2014, Tim Cook publicly came out as gay, becoming the first and only chief executive of a Fortune 500 company to do so; additionally, in October 2014 he was inducted into the Alabama Academy of Honor.

2020: Doubling Apple's Revenue and Profit

From 2011 to 2020, under Tim Cook's leadership, Apple doubled its revenue and profit, with the company's market value rising from $348 billion to $1.9 trillion.