Newly minted Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook assured Apple employees that he was not going to mess with the company's past success in the wake of Steve Jobs' resignation, according to a company-wide email obtained by Ars Technica.
"I want you to be confident that Apple is not going to change," Cook wrote. "I cherish and celebrate Apple's unique principles and values."
Cook, who has been running the company since Jobs took a medical leave last January, said that he would continue his predecessor's legacy. On Wednesday, Jobs stepped down from day-to-day duties, becoming chairman of the tech giant's board.
Also read: Steve Jobs: I Can No Longer Meet My Duties as Apple's CEO
"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," Cook wrote.
Cook previously served as the tech giant's chief operating officer.
Here's the full text of the email:
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