January 15, 2009 by James Oliver
After months of speculation about his health, Apple chief, Steve Jobs, has revealed that he intends to take six months off from Apple, stating that the issues with his health are ‘More complex than originally thought.’ The announcement comes only days after jobs played down his health problems, claiming nothing more than a hormone imbalance forced him to miss the company’s final keynote speech at this year’s Macworld.
Apple shares have not reacted well to the news, dropping 7 percent yesterday in the wake of the announcement. This reaction from the market is relatively strong and serves to underline how important Jobs is seen to be to Apple.
Jobs’ return to the company ten years ago sparked a period of massive growth and creativity. He is personally credited with spearheading Apple’s line of innovative, consumer-focussed products which includes the iPhone and the iPod – the bedrock of Apple’s current success.
With such a charismatic leader out of the picture for such a long time Apple will have to adjust quickly. Tim Cooks, Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, who looks to be the most likely successor for the time being and in the long-run, will have to act quickly to maintain the company’s momentum. However, with no big new product on the immediate horizon that may be a tough challenge.
Get well soon Steve.
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