Apple Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives Lisa Jackson is retiring in January 2026, marking a significant shift in Apple’s sustainability, climate strategy, and corporate governance leadership — a change that will be closely watched by industry leaders and tech audiences alike because it reshapes how one of the world’s largest tech companies fights climate change and influences global policy. Why this matters now: her departure comes as environmental expectations on global corporations tighten, and Apple accelerates its carbon reduction and governance efforts.
Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, confirmed that Jackson has stepped down after more than a decade at the company, noting her leadership helped reduce Apple’s global greenhouse emissions by more than 60% compared to 2015 levels — a milestone in corporate sustainability.
A Legacy of Environmental Leadership at Apple
Lisa Jackson joined Apple in 2013 as Vice President for Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, bringing a rare combination of environmental policy expertise and corporate leadership to one of the world’s most influential technology companies. Before Apple, she served as Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency during the Obama administration, where she focused on climate action, cleaner air, and environmental justice.
At Apple, Jackson led the company’s renewable energy programs, waste reduction efforts, and energy efficiency initiatives, helping to position Apple as a leader among global corporations in environmental stewardship. Her leadership extended into social policy areas, including Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, designed to fund education and opportunity in underserved communities — a reflection of her belief that environmental sustainability and social equity go hand in hand.
Strategic Impact on Apple’s Climate Goals
Under Jackson’s tenure, Apple advanced ambitious climate commitments, most notably its goal to become carbon neutral across its entire business, manufacturing supply chain, and product life cycle by 2030. This commitment — among the most ambitious in the tech sector — has shaped how Apple sources renewable energy, manages material use, and collaborates with suppliers worldwide.
Industry analysts say Jackson’s departure comes at a critical juncture as Apple transitions from setting bold long-term targets to implementing measurable actions in every region it operates. Her strategy combined decarbonization with political engagement — giving Apple a strong voice in climate policy discussions globally and aligning corporate goals with rising regulatory expectations.
New Leadership and Organizational Shifts
Apple’s executive transition not only marks Jackson’s departure but also brings a reorganization of environmental and policy functions within the company. According to Apple’s official announcements, the responsibilities of Jackson’s office will be divided between two senior executives:
• Sabih Khan, Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, will take oversight of Apple’s environmental and social initiatives — ensuring continuity in sustainability efforts.
• Jennifer Newstead, formerly Chief Legal Officer at Meta, is set to join Apple in early 2026 as senior vice president and will combine legal and government affairs responsibilities, reflecting a broader corporate strategy that aligns legal policy with global governance challenges.
During the transitional period, the company’s General Counsel, Kate Adam,s will oversee the Government Affairs group until her retirement later in 2026.
This organizational restructure shows Apple’s shift toward a more integrated approach that merges environmental stewardship with legal and policy priorities — a reflection of how major technology companies are preparing for the future regulatory landscape.
The Wider Industry Context
Jackson’s retirement is part of a broader wave of leadership changes within Apple’s senior ranks, including recent transitions in legal and design functions. Tech industry watchers say that these changes may influence how Apple navigates evolving challenges in sustainability reporting, supply chain emissions, digital policy, and global governance.
For audiences tracking corporate sustainability trends, Jackson’s legacy highlights how deeply environmental strategy is now woven into business operations — not just compliance or brand image. Apple’s continued leadership in sustainability initiatives under new leadership will likely be a benchmark for other global tech firms.
Looking Forward: Continuity and Change
Executives within Apple emphasize continuity: the company says it remains committed to its 2030 carbon neutrality goal and will build on systems and partnerships established during Jackson’s leadership. Her ties with government bodies and experience in global climate discourse have helped Apple position itself at the intersection of innovation, policy, and environmental advocacy.
As Apple moves forward, the split of Jackson’s portfolio into operations and legal-policy roles reflects a strategic alignment with broader industry trends where sustainability and governance converge, offering new frameworks for corporate impact.
In a statement reflecting on her time at Apple, Jackson said that reducing environmental impact “is not just good for the environment, but good for business,” encapsulating a perspective increasingly shared by corporate leaders and consumers alike.
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