New Delhi: Tim Cook has stepped down as the CEO of Apple, after helming it for 15 years. Cook penned an emotional farewell memo to Apple employees, praising the work environment and recalling his journey.
Cook’s final day as Apple CEO was Monday, August 31. John Ternus will assume the role from September 1.
However, Cook is not leaving the company. Instead, he is moving into the new role of Executive Chairman.
In an emotional farewell letter to Apple employees, Cook thanked employees for their support, affection and dedication, describing his time leading the company as “the privilege of a lifetime.”
“I love this company and the team behind it, and I couldn’t let this day pass without sending a note to you, to tell you how grateful I am for the outpouring of affection you’ve sent my way, for the way you’ve shown up each and every day, and most of all, for the privilege of a lifetime serving as your leader,” Cook wrote in his letter.
Cook, 65, took had taken up the job from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs in 2011. Cook also paid tribute to Jobs, recalling his vision of leaving a “dent in the universe.” He added that Apple’s employees have helped turn that ambition into reality through their shared values, sense of purpose and ability to work as a team.
“Together, we have created something far greater than any one of us could have imagined or accomplished alone,” Cook wrote. He credited Apple’s employees for his success as CEO.
“The truth is, whatever there is to say about my success, I know it is all because of you. You have brought out the best in me. In all my life, I have never seen or been with such an extraordinary team of people before, and every day I get to see more examples of that,” Cook added.
Cook also praised Ternus directly in his note and appreciated his leadership qualities. “Few people understand what it takes to build products that change the world the way John does, and I could not be more excited for his leadership,” he wrote.
‘My last day’
Cook also pointed to what he sees as Apple’s most important achievement — something that goes beyond sales figures, profits or anything that can be measured in an annual report.
He said that Apple’s success is rooted in a strong culture and a shared sense of purpose, noting that the company believes its work should make a meaningful difference and help leave the world better than it found it.
“Most of all, I hope you will continue to be proud to be part of this remarkable place we call Apple and always give it your very best. When we bring our whole selves to this work, with care for one another and for the people we serve, there is no limit to the profound difference we can make,” wrote Cook.
Later on Monday, Cook also tweeted on his X account about his title changing at Apple from the following day.
“My title changes tomorrow, but the love I have for the Apple community never will. My gratitude is endless, and I’m excited for the next chapter!” he tweeted.
Responding to Cook’s post, Elon Musk congratulated him on his new role and offered his farewell. “Congratulations on an epic career at Apple!” Musk tweeted.
(Edited by Aakriti Handa)