Steve Jobs became CEO in 1997.
In a letter addressed to the ‘Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community,’ Jobs wrote:’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.’
Jobs recommended that the board implement its own succession plan and appoint Tim Cook, who has been filling in for Jobs since January, as CEO. Jobs also said he hoped to remain as chairman and an Apple employee.
‘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,’ he wrote.
In a statement, Apple confirmed that Cook had been named CEO and that Jobs had been elected Chairman of the Board.
‘Steve’s extraordinary vision and leadership saved Apple and guided it to its position as the world’s most innovative and valuable technology company,’ said Art Levinson, Chairman of Genentech, on behalf of Apple’s Board. ‘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.’
‘The Board has complete confidence that Tim is the right person to be our next CEO,’ added Levinson. ‘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.’
