Cook joined Colgate-Palmolive in the United Kingdom in 1976.[1][2][3][4][5] From 2002 to 2005, he served as executive vice president.[2][3][5][6] In 2004, he was appointed chief operating officer, with responsibility for operations in North America, Europe, Central Europe, Asia and Africa.[1][2][3][4][5][6] In 2005, he became president and continued to serve as COO.[1][2][3][4][5] He was elected president, chief executive officer and joined the board of directors in 2007.[1][2][3][4][5] In 2009, he became chairman of the board of directors, and continued on as president and CEO.[1][2][3][4][5] In 2011, he earned over US$14 million.[1]