Jobs Resigns as Apple CEO

Yesterday evening Apple announced that Steve Jobs has resigned as Chief Executive Officer of the company and Tim Cook, former Chief Operating Officer, has been named his successor per a previously determined succession plan. In his role as COO, Cook was in charge of Apple’s worldwide sales and operations. As part of the shift in leadership, with all changes effective immediately, Jobs has been elected Chairman of Apple’s Board of Directors and Cook will join the Board.

In his letter of resignation, Jobs maintained,

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.

Although the letter began somberly with Jobs’ decision to resign from the position of CEO, it ended on a more upbeat note, with Jobs emphasizing,

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.

As both Jobs and Apple have made clear, Jobs will maintain a strong and influential presence at Apple despite the restructuring of leadership.