Letter from management
Dear Apple employees,
We are announcing that Dr. Gil Amelio has resigned his position as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer, effective today, and that the company has initiated a search for a new CEO.
The board and the executive management team thank Gil for his contributions to the company over the past year and a half. During that period, we've made significant progress in addressing the crises which were threatening our viability. While these are critical steps on the way to recovery, we now need to aggressively boost our business in order to return to growth. The board and Gil have agreed that it's time to look for a CEO with a different profile to accomplish our goals.
With the board, the executive management team will focus on Apple's renewed growth; in its search for a new CEO, the board will seek an experienced industry leader who would be able to steer Apple toward growth.
Until a new CEO is hired, Fred Anderson, executive vice president and chief financial officer, will assume additional responsibilities for the company's day-to-day operations, working closely with the board and the executive management team.
During the last year and a half, we have made significant progress in
several critical areas. We have improved our cash position, reduced
operating expenses, and improved product quality. We have also introduced a
series of outstanding products, developed a long-term operating system
strategy, and consolidated our marketing and sales organizations. We have a
solid executive management team including the following:
During the interim period, Apple's cofounder and strategic adviser, Steve Jobs, has agreed to take on an expanded role to the board and the executive management team. Ellen Hancock, executive vice president of technology, has also announced that she will be leaving the company. Ellen has made significant contributions to Apple's technology strategy. She's now at a stage in her career to take on other challenges. Her responsibilities will be rolled into Jon Rubinstein's and Avie Tevanian's organizations.
The search for a new CEO will be led by a committee composed of board vice chairman A.C. "Mike" Markkula, board director Edgar S. Woolard, Jr., Fred Anderson, and Steve Jobs. We will let you know as soon as we have information to communicate about the search.
We have many challenging but exciting opportunities ahead, and the entire executive management team looks forward to working with all of you to return the company to growth and sustainable profitability.
Regards,
The Executive Management Team