Apple has announced the appointment of Jennifer Newstead, currently Meta Platforms’ chief legal officer, as its new general counsel and senior vice president. Newstead will assume the role of senior vice president in January and officially become general counsel on March 1, 2026. This transition follows the planned retirement of Apple’s current general counsel, Kate Adams, who has served in the role since 2017 and will retire late next year. ([businesswire.com](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251204848925/en/Apple-announces-executive-transitions?utm_source=openai))
Newstead brings a wealth of experience to Apple, having served as the legal adviser to the U.S. Department of State prior to her tenure at Meta. Her background includes significant roles in both the public and private sectors, positioning her well to navigate the complex legal landscape of a global technology company. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/ae/newsroom/2025/12/apple-announces-executive-transitions/?utm_source=openai))
In addition to Newstead’s appointment, Apple announced that Lisa Jackson, vice president for Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, will retire in late January 2026. Following Jackson’s departure, the Government Affairs organization will transition to Adams until her retirement, after which it will be led by Newstead. This restructuring reflects the increasing overlap between legal and governmental affairs, consolidating these functions under Newstead’s leadership. ([businesswire.com](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251204848925/en/Apple-announces-executive-transitions?utm_source=openai))
Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed confidence in Newstead’s capabilities, stating, “We couldn’t be more pleased to have Jennifer join our team. She brings an extraordinary depth of experience and skill to the role, and will advance Apple’s important work all over the world.” ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/ae/newsroom/2025/12/apple-announces-executive-transitions/?utm_source=openai))
These executive changes come amid a series of high-profile departures and appointments at Apple. Notably, Alan Dye, Apple’s longtime head of human interface design, recently joined Meta as chief design officer. Dye’s move underscores the competitive landscape for top talent among leading technology firms. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/apples-design-executive-alan-dye-join-meta-2025-12-03/?utm_source=openai))
As Apple continues to evolve its leadership team, the integration of Newstead’s legal expertise is expected to play a pivotal role in guiding the company through the increasingly complex regulatory environment facing the technology industry.