Today, on his last day as Apple CEO, Tim Cook gave a very moving speech to the company. He highly appreciates “The privilege of being a leader”thank colleagues “Show love and care” and said he was experiencing “I am extremely relieved to be handing over the reins to such a talented, wonderful and capable individual”As John Turnus.
Image source: Apple
Cook said few people understand what it takes to create world-changing products like Ternus, so he’s excited to hand over leadership to someone of such ability and creativity. The full text of Cook’s speech is as follows:
“team,
Today is my last day as CEO of Apple. I always knew this moment would come one day, but as I write these words, it’s still hard to believe it has arrived. I love this company and the team behind it, and I couldn’t let this day go by without writing you to express my gratitude for the love and care you pour into me, how you show up every day, and most importantly, thank you for the privilege of being your lifelong leader.
The truth is, no matter what people say about my success, I know it’s all because of you. You bring out the best in me. I have never seen or worked with such a great team in my life, and I see more examples of it every day.
There really is something special about Apple. The things I’m most proud of are things that can’t be reflected in an annual report. This place proves that culture comes first. Together we believe that what we create matters and that we have the opportunity and responsibility to leave the world better than we found it. This purpose is part of what makes this place stand out. Apple helped cultivate it, but I believe each of you had it long before you got here. This is why you came to this company and continues to inspire you every day at work.
Together we create far more than we could ever imagine or achieve alone. This is the secret of our success. We bring out the best in each other. We support each other. As Steve once said, because of who we are, what we believe, and because of our values and our vision for the world, we are able to “leave our mark on the universe.” How lucky we are. How lucky I am.
As you know, I’m not leaving Apple. But I’m leaving a position that I absolutely love. Although I feel completely at peace with my decision, I will miss this job more than I thought I would. I will miss leading you and being with you every step of the way, although it brings me great comfort to hand over the reins to such a talented, wonderful and capable man as John. Few people understand what it takes to create world-changing products like John does, and I’m excited about his leadership.
I hope you know how grateful I am to you and what an honor it is to serve as your CEO. Most of all, I hope you continue to be proud to be a part of the wonderful place Apple is and to always do your best. When we dedicate ourselves to this work and care for each other and the people we serve, our achievements will be infinitely more meaningful.
I look forward to meeting you in my new role at Apple Park and around the world.
Yours, Tim”
Cook also thanked the Apple community in a social media post: “On my last day as CEO, a huge love to the Apple community. My title will change tomorrow, but my love for the Apple community will never change. Thank you for always being my inspiration. My gratitude is endless, and I look forward to the next chapter!”
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