Spending over a decade to revive Apple and take it to such heights that it is not just ahead of its rivals in the tech industry, Apple actually is close to being the largest company on earth today, Steve Jobs has done a lot of work since his return in late 90s as the CEO of a company he once co-founded. Today, Steve Jobs announced that the day has come… He has resigned as the CEO of Apple and recommended Tim Cook as his successor.
Steve Jobs expects to remain the Chairman of the Board and continue to serve Apple in whatever way possible. While this perhaps doesn’t change much inside Apple that has been working just fine in his absence (medial leaves), the way we know Apple sure alters. Here is what Steve Jobs says in his letter to the Apple BOD and the Apple Community.
Steve’s letter is short but emotional at the same time. He reminds that he would be the first to tell us when he is unable to fulfill his duties and expectations as CEO and Unfortunately, that day has come.
Steve Jobs requested the board to allow him to continue as the Chairman and as a director. His words are “if the Board sees fit.”
Jobs suggested Tim Cook, until now the Chief Operating Office of Apple as his successor and urged the board to kick in the succession plan. There is little surprise here, but Here is what Steve Says:
As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.
Here is the complete letter:
To the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community:
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