Apple’s new CEO has his work cut out for him, with customers, Wall Street, the internet in general, and employees all uncertain about Apple’s future. Tim Cook’s answer? An email pep talk — but it could have been peppier.
Cook’s email, acquired by Ars Technica, includes the expected platitudes:
I am looking forward to the amazing opportunity of serving as CEO of the most innovative company in the world.
Steve has been an incredible leader and mentor to me, as well as to the entire executive team and our amazing employees.
I love Apple and I am looking forward to diving into my new role.
But it’s lacking in… zest? Jobs’ departure is a major, major occurrence for Apple, and the full text of the email, below, doesn’t exactly inspire that ALRIGHT, ON THREE, APPLE! rah-rah go-team-go-Battle-of-Thermopylae energy a lot of workers probably need right now. Cook assures the staff that they can expect “Steve’s ongoing guidance and inspiration as our Chairman,” but that’s vague and not exactly hoot-and-holler enthusiasm. The memo reads mostly as just a memo:
Team:
I am looking forward to the amazing opportunity of serving as CEO of the most innovative company in the world. Joining Apple was the best decision I’ve ever made and it’s been the privilege of a lifetime to work for Apple and Steve for over 13 years. I share Steve’s optimism for Apple’s bright future.
Steve has been an incredible leader and mentor to me, as well as to the entire executive team and our amazing employees. We are really looking forward to Steve’s ongoing guidance and inspiration as our Chairman.
I want you to be confident that Apple is not going to change. I cherish and celebrate Apple’s unique principles and values. Steve built a company and culture that is unlike any other in the world and we are going to stay true to that-it is in our DNA. We are going to continue to make the best products in the world that delight our customers and make our employees incredibly proud of what they do.
I love Apple and I am looking forward to diving into my new role. All of the incredible support from the Board, the executive team and many of you has been inspiring. I am confident our best years lie ahead of us and that together we will continue to make Apple the magical place that it is.
Tim
We’re hoping for a smooth transition from the pioneering group, but Cook might have to stretch a little harder to fill in those shoes. [Ars Technica]
Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty