John Ternus has emailed all Apple staff worldwide as he begins his tenure as chief executive, thanking employees and offering a first hint at his plans for the company’s future.
The memo follows Tim Cook’s farewell email to staff. In his own message, Ternus thanked his predecessor and welcomed the fact that Cook is remaining with the company in a new role as executive chairman.
What John Ternus told Apple staff
Writing on his first day as Apple CEO, Ternus addressed employees directly. “Today, on my first day as CEO, I just wanted to send a quick note to thank everyone for the warm wishes,” he wrote. He extended his appreciation to Cook for sharing his knowledge and experience during the transition, and for everything he contributed to Apple over the years.
Ternus described Cook as a leader who acted “with his values and with such decency and humanity”, adding that he was grateful his predecessor would serve as executive chairman. He said he was honoured to step into the role at what he called “truly the greatest company in the world”.
A hint at the road ahead
Ternus signalled his enthusiasm for the period ahead, referencing a significant product event. “We have a huge launch next week that’s going to be phenomenal,” he told staff, thanking them for the work that made it possible.
He also pointed beyond the immediate launch, referring to products already in development as well as those still to be conceived. “I’m just as excited about what lies beyond that, including the incredible products already in the works and the ones we haven’t even imagined yet that we’ll dream up and create together,” he wrote. “There’s no team in the world I’d rather build the future with.”
The memo closed with a note that more would follow, and thanks to staff for their work. Cook remains at the company in the role of executive chairman.
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Image: appleinsider.com
