Apple CEO Steve Jobs is taking a medical leave of absence to deal with ongoing health issues. This is the second such departure in the past two years.
The design-minded leader released this letter: “At my request, the board of directors has granted me a medical leave of absence so I can focus on my health. I will continue as CEO and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company. I love Apple so much and hope to be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, my family and I would deeply appreciate respect for our privacy.”
Taking the reins will be Apple Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook. Jobs offered: “I have great confidence that Tim and the rest of the executive management team will do a terrific job executing the exciting plans we have in place for 2011.”
The iconic leader battled pancreatic cancer beginning in 2003. He lost a tremendous amount of weight in 2008 and underwent a liver transplant in January 2009.
Apple, the maker of the popular iPod, iPhone and iPad, will release an earnings report on Tuesday.