Apple’s long time CEO Steve Jobs has stepped down from his post, with the company’s chief operating officer Tim Cook set to take the driver’s seat.
Apple announced Wednesday that Jobs had resigned after going on indefinite leave in January to focus on his battle with cancer. The company said Jobs had been elected chairman of Apple’s board, with Cook made a board member, effectively immediately.
In a letter to employees, Jobs had written, “I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my expectations as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.”
Jobs also wrote in the letter that he looked forward to “watching and contributing” to Apple’s success “in a new role”.
Apple board member Art Levinson said Jobs would continue to serve Apple with his “unique insights, creativity and inspiration” as board chairman. Levinson added the board had full confidence Cook was the right choice to fill Job’s shoes.
Gartner research director Michael Gartenberg said that while Job’s resignation marked the end of an era for Apple, it was important to remember there was more to Apple than any one person, including Steve Jobs. Gartenberg added Jobs would continue to leave his mark on both the company and products even as he transferred leadership over to Cook.