Apple is set to lose one of its top executives with the impending exit of Vice President of Communications Steve Dowling.
In a memo Dowling sent out to his staff this week, he explained that it was just time for him to leave Apple. He said that he plans to take some time off and that he is not looking to take another job elsewhere. He will remain with the Cupertino-based company until the end of October.
"After 16 years at Apple, countless keynotes, product launches and the occasional PR crisis, I've decided that the time is right for me to step away from our remarkable company," Dowling wrote.
"This is something that has been on my mind for a while, and it came into sharp focus during the latest - and for me, last - launch cycle. Your plans are set and the team is executing brilliantly as ever. So, it's time."
Apple Recognizes Dowling's Contributions
Apple also released a statement regarding Dowling's departure, recognizing his contributions over the years.
The iPhone maker described Dowling as someone who has been dedicated to Apple for more than a decade and a half. He has contributed to the company at various points throughout its most significant moments. These included the launch of the first-ever iPhone to the release of other products such as the App Store, Apple Watch, and AirPods.
Apple went on to confirm Dowling's exit from the company following another successful product launch, explaining that the communications chief plans to spend some much deserved time with his family. He is leaving behind a significant legacy to Apple, something that will serve the iPhone maker well into its future.
The company expressed its gratitude to Dowling for all of his contributions and wished him the best.
Dowling's exit from Apple comes a few days after the iPhone maker hosted its yearly fall event at its Cupertino HQ last week. It had just launched its latest offerings, the iPhone 11 and the newest version of the Apple Watch.
Phil Schiller, head of Apple's marketing division, will take over Dowling's responsibilities in the interim. However, the company is reportedly considering screening internal and external candidates for a possible replacement.
Dowling's Tenure With The iPhone Maker
Dowling spent a majority of his time with Apple serving as head of corporate public relations. He witnessed the company's struggles dealing with the death of its iconic founder Steve Jobs and the early years of then-new CEO Tim Cook. He also saw the release of Apple's new product offerings and its ongoing battle with the U.S. government over the issue of encryption.
In his final years with the iPhone maker, Dowling served as the company's Vice President of Communications. He reported directly to its chief executive, Cook.
Dowling had worked as a journalist for CNBC's office in Silicon Valley before deciding to join Apple. He started with the iPhone maker by reporting to former communications chief Katie Cotton. When Cotton subsequently left the company, Dowling was chosen to take over public relations duties by CEO Cook himself.
