Apple public relations chief Katie Cotton is retiring after nearly two decades with the company. As VP of worldwide corporate communications, Cotton didnt have a particularly public face, but shes played a big role in shaping the tone of product launches and Apples persona, from its struggles in the 90s through its huge hits through the 2000s. Cotton was also known as the gatekeeper to Steve Jobs during his time as CEO, and shes been serving the same role for Tim Cook since. Katie has given her all to this company for over 18 years,” an Apple spokesperson tells Recode, which first reported news of Cottons retirement.