Tim Cook replaces Steve Jobs as CEO of Apple

The Apple board of Directors have announced that iconic leader Steve Jobs has resigned as Chief Executive Officer. They have named Tim Cook as the new CEO.

Tim Cook has been the Chief Operating Officer for Apple for some time and his move to replace Steve Jobs has not came as a shock to anyone. He was the right man for the job. He has been responsible for Apple's worldwide sales and operations which has included the management of the supply chain and service and support in many countries. His duties also involved running the Macintosh division.

Art Levinson, the Chairman of Genentech said in the press release “Steve’s extraordinary vision and leadership saved Apple and guided it to its position as the world’s most innovative and valuable technology company. Steve has made countless contributions to Apple’s success, and he has attracted and inspired Apple’s immensely creative employees and world class executive team. In his new role as Chairman of the Board, Steve will continue to serve Apple with his unique insights, creativity and inspiration.”

He continued “The Board has complete confidence that Tim is the right person to be our next CEO. Tim’s 13 years of service to Apple have been marked by outstanding performance, and he has demonstrated remarkable talent and sound judgment in everything he does.”

Many writers and analysts fear that Apple will not be same without Steve Jobs. Tom Kaneshige at CIO said “The chances of replacing a leader like Jobs are slim to none. The same thing was said about GE’s legendary Jack Welch when he retired, and Welch wasn’t anywhere near the lofty status of Jobs. And it turned out to be true: GE under Jeffrey Immelt has never been the same.”

Steve Jobs recommended that Tim Cook get the position and to implement their full succession plan.

He sent a letter to the board of directors:

I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.

I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee.

As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.

I believe Apple’s brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it. And I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role.

I have made some of the best friends of my life at Apple, and I thank you all for the many years of being able to work alongside you.

Steve

Kitguru says: It was only a matter of time before Jobs decided to step down, he has been battling with health issues now for quite some time and while we are sure he will be involved in the company on a regular basis, he clearly cannot deal with the day to day running of the business any longer.

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