Amaya Toman Steve Dowling, Apple's vice president of communications, is leaving the company after sixteen years. Dowling took up the role in 2014 following the departure of his predecessor, Katie Cotton, and has since led the Cupertino PR team. However, Steve Dowling has worked in the company since 2003, when he worked as the head of corporate public relations under the leadership of Katie Cotton.
In a memo to employees this week, Dowling said "the time has come for him to leave this remarkable company" and that he plans to take a break from work. According to his words, he has already mentioned sixteen years of work at Apple, countless Keynotes, product launches and a few unpleasant PR crises. He adds that he had been toying with the idea of leaving for a long time, and that it took on more concrete outlines during the latest cycle of new product launches. “Your plans are set and the team is doing a great job as always. So it's time” writes Dowling.
“Phil will be managing the team on an interim basis from today and I will be available until the end of October to help with the transition. After that, I plan to take a really long stretch of time off before I start something new. I have a supportive, patient wife Petra and two beautiful children waiting for me at home," Dowling continues in his letter to employees, adding that his loyalty to Apple and its people "knows no bounds." He praises working with Tim Cook and thanks everyone for their hard work, patience and friendship. "And I wish you all success," adds in conclusion.
In a statement, Apple said it was grateful for everything Dowling had done for the company. "Steve Dowling has been committed to Apple for more than 16 years and has been an asset to the company at every level and in most significant moments." says the company's statement. "From the first iPhone and the App Store to the Apple Watch and AirPods, he helped share our values with the world."
The company's statement concludes by saying that Dowling deserves his time with his family and that he leaves behind a legacy that will serve the company well into the future.
Dowling will remain at Apple until the end of October, his position will be temporarily taken over by chief marketing officer Phil Schller until Apple manages to find an adequate replacement. According to the company, it considers both internal and external candidates.
