Tim Cook completes 9 years as Apple chief: Read Steve Jobs email naming him CEO

Tim Cook has completed nine years as Apple CEO. Cook formally took over as Cupertino giant's CEO on August 24, 2011. The 59-year-old CEO had big shoes to fill in when he took over from Jobs, as the latter stepped aside due to health reasons. Since then Cook has done the job admirably well, taking Apple to greater heights. Earlier this month, Apple made history as it touched $2 trillion in market valuation. While iPhones continue to be the biggest product for the company, two products launched under Cook's leadership -- Apple Watch and AirPods -- are global market leaders. Some analysts view grooming of Cook as heir apparent as one of Jobs' big accomplishments. In a letter to the company's board, Jobs wrote, "As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple." Here's the complete letter that Jobs wrote to the Apple board.


To the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community:

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