Apple hires Nate Gatten as its new head of government affairs, appointing him as vice president in preparation for upcoming leadership changes. A memo seen by Bloomberg indicates the move takes effect around the time of CEO succession planning, with Gatten positioned to oversee government affairs at the corporate level.
Multiple outlets describe Gatten as a veteran executive previously with American Airlines and with political experience. Bloomberg and related reports say Apple has tapped him partly due to his Republican ties, which the company believes could help navigate policy engagement, including with the Trump administration. Apple’s current government affairs leader, Nick Ammann, is reported to shift to a role where he reports to Gatten.
Outlets also note broader internal restructuring around senior leadership. Bloomberg reports the appointment is delicate given the role’s relationship to policymakers, while MacRumors adds that Katherine Adams is scheduled to retire at the end of 2026 and remain available in an advisory capacity for a period. Apple’s general counsel Jennifer Newstead is reported to oversee the new vice president role.
