Apple COO Tim Cook is take over the company’s day-to-day running after it was announced that Steve Jobs is to take a six month medical leave of absence.
Having previously stepped into the CEO post when Jobs was treated for pancreatic cancer, there is no doubt about his leadership abilities.
A veteran employee of large companies in the technology industry, he has an MBA from Duke University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Auburn University.
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| Tim Cook, Apple’s COO |
He started his career at IBM – where he went on to head its manufacturing and distribution functions.
This was followed by a stint as vice president of Corporate Materials for Compaq before he took up his position at Apple in March 1998 as the Chief Operating Officer.
This has seen him take responsibility for the company’s worldwide sales and operations.
So, a more than capable stand-in which should ensure Jobs will be able to concentrate on regaining his health without having to worry about Apple’s.
The following is the email Job’s sent to all Apple employees:
Team,
I am sure all of you saw my letter last week sharing something very personal with the Apple community. Unfortunately, the curiosity over my personal health continues to be a distraction not only for me and my family, but everyone else at Apple as well. In addition, during the past week I have learned that my health-related issues are more complex than I originally thought.
In order to take myself out of the limelight and focus on my health, and to allow everyone at Apple to focus on delivering extraordinary products, I have decided to take a medical leave of absence until the end of June.
I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for Apple’s day to day operations, and I know he and the rest of the executive management team will do a great job. As CEO, I plan to remain involved in major strategic decisions while I am out. Our board of directors fully supports this plan.
I look forward to seeing all of you this summer.
Steve
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