Once You've had Mac...Steve Jobs Resigns as Apple CEO

It's a sad day as Steve Jobs, head of technology giant, Apple Inc resigned as CEO in a move that ended his 14-year reign at the company he co-founded in a garage.

A young Steve Jobs holds the Apple II computer in 1977

As a huge advocate of Apple and an owner of Macs, iPhones, iPods and the occasional use of the new iPad - I can seriously say I will never go back to a PC in my life. Apple and its technology has revolutionised the way in which we now live, work and communicate and it's largely down to the inspirational leader that is Steve Jobs. 

Steve Jobs with the first Apple Mac

Jobs, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2003 and underwent surgery, began to grow noticeably gaunt in 2009 and pulled out of appearances, prompting fears that he was seriously ill.

But he denied rumours, releasing a statement saying it was simply a 'hormone imbalance that was robbing his body of the proteins it needs'. 

The resignation letter: 

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

Not all is lost however, as in his new role as Chairman of the Board, Steve will continue to serve Apple with his unique insights, creativity and inspiration.

Good luck to Tim Cook, who has already proved himself a capable successor, looking after the company for stretches of time whilst Steve was recovering. I for one, will be sticking with Apple for the foreseeable future! 

Tim Cook, the successor

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