Apple’s executive shake-up continues with departures of general counsel and policy head
In a significant shake-up at Apple, the tech giant has announced the departures of two prominent senior executives: Kate Adams, the longtime general counsel, and Lisa Jackson, the vice president of environment, policy, and social initiatives. Adams, who has been with Apple since 2017, played a crucial role in navigating the company through various legal challenges and regulatory landscapes, including high-stakes litigation and compliance issues. Her departure marks a pivotal moment for Apple, as the company has increasingly faced scrutiny over antitrust concerns and privacy regulations. Meanwhile, Lisa Jackson, who has been instrumental in advancing Apple’s environmental initiatives, including its commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainable practices, is also leaving. Jackson’s leadership has been vital in positioning Apple as a leader in corporate environmental responsibility, making her exit a significant loss for the company as it continues to pursue aggressive sustainability goals.
In a move to fill the void left by Adams, Apple has announced that Jennifer Newstead, currently serving as Meta’s general counsel, will join the company in 2026. Newstead brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at Meta, where she has dealt with complex legal challenges, including privacy issues and regulatory compliance. Her appointment is expected to bolster Apple’s legal strategy at a time when the company is navigating an increasingly complex legal landscape, particularly concerning its App Store practices and data privacy regulations. The transition comes at a critical juncture for Apple, as it faces mounting pressure from regulators worldwide and must continue to innovate while maintaining its reputation for privacy and security.
The departures of Adams and Jackson also highlight a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies are undergoing significant leadership changes amidst evolving regulatory environments and societal expectations. As tech giants face increased scrutiny over their influence and practices, the ability to adapt and lead in these areas becomes paramount. Apple’s commitment to sustainability and legal integrity will be tested in the coming years, and the new leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the company’s future direction. With Newstead stepping in as general counsel and the company seeking to fill Jackson’s role, Apple is poised to navigate these challenges while striving to maintain its status as a leader in innovation and corporate responsibility.
Apple loses two more top senior executives with exits of longtime general counsel Kate Adams and environmental VP Lisa Jackson. Meta’s Jennifer Newstead is set to join as new general counsel in 2026.
