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Tim Cook: Apple CEO
Date joined Apple: 1998
Job description: Cook now runs every aspect of Apple’s business, including product development, operations, and financial performance.
Why Cook Matters to CIOs
It’s simple really: Cook is the ultimate decision-maker at Apple. Whether he refocuses Apple’s enterprise strategy or decides to stick with the consumer-driven approach that pains so many CIOs, Cook has the final say on what happens at Apple.
Scott Forstall:
Apple SVP, iOS Software
Date joined Apple: 1997
Job description: Forstall is charged with leading and managing the company’s development of iOS, the mobile platform on the iPhone and iPad.
Why Forstall Matters to CIOs
Right now, Forstall might just be Apple’s most important executive for CIOs. He’s the person who makes decisions on the future of iOS, including bringing new features to the platform. If that means enterprise improvements, CIOs will be happy. If it means more consumer-facing functions, they won’t. Forstall has the biggest impact on CIOs of any Apple executive right now.
Jonathan Ive:
Apple SVP, Industrial Design
Date joined Apple: 1996
Job description: Ive is widely recognized as one of the best hardware makers in the world. At Apple, he helps design the products that people use around the globe.
Why Ive Matters to CIOs
Ive has a unique eye for design, and many have said that he was Steve Jobs’ best cohort when it came to developing new products. As the head of design at Apple, Ive is vastly important even without Jobs in the mix. He’ll drive the designs that will continue to appeal to consumers -- and potentially drive IT consumerization in the enterprise.
Bob Mansfield:
Apple SVP, Mac Hardware Engineering
Date joined Apple: 1999
Job description: From the Mac MIni to the Mac Pro, Mansfield leads a team that takes the development of Macs from concept to the store shelves.
Why Mansfield Matters to CIOs
Although few companies around the globe are ready to fully commit to Macs, Mansfield has been instrumental in getting them to think twice about it. He led the development of computers that, in many respects, are becoming far more appealing than ever to corporate users. Mansfield won’t turn Apple’s Macs into enterprise juggernauts anytime soon, but his devices are likely to lure some CIOs.
Jeff Williams:
Apple SVP, Operations
Date joined Apple: 1998
Job description: His might not be the most exciting role in this roundup, but Williams helps control the supply chain that keeps Apple products coming to stores.
Why Williams Matters to CIOs
Effectively Apple’s chief operations officer now that Cook is CEO, Williams oversees the company’s supply chain to ensure there aren’t empty store shelves around town. If you are looking to invest in new Apple products, you'd better hope Williams is doing his job.
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