Possible successor to Tim Cook?

[macs4nw]

While mulling over existential thoughts the other day, it occurred to me there isn't a whole lot of discussion floating around about who would --or could-- replace Tim Cook, if the unthinkable should happen to him.

Do any of you have any thoughts about who could replace Tim to successfully run Apple, and as there are no guarantees in life, do you think Tim is currently grooming anyone in particular as a precaution for continuity if that time were to come unexpectedly early?

 

[aaronvan]

Good question. We are now once removed from Steve and when Tim leaves, well, then we will be twice removed. It's hard to conceive that Apple will continue to score with visionary CEOs. It is inevitable that at some point a Gil Amelio-type technocrat bean-counter will take the helm and Apple will begin it's inevitable decline. I just hope I recognize him/her and dump my shares before they collapse.

 

[lostngone]

Sir Jonathan Paul Ive of course!

However I think he is happy as a Designer/Engineer.

 

[dannyyankou]

If we're being realistic here, Jeff Williams would probably take his place. And I think he would do a great job.

 

[jnpy!$4g3cwk]

Sir Jonathan Paul Ive of course!

I hope not. He seems to be obsessed with making everything paper thin.

I share aaronvan's lingering fear regarding the (inevitable?) bean-counter CEO. That has been the death sentence for so many tech companies.

 

[Rogifan]

Sir Jonathan Paul Ive of course!

However I think he is happy as a Designer/Engineer.

No he has zero interest in being CEO. If its internal my guess would be Jeff Williams, Eddy Cue or Phil Schiller.

 

[Melrose]

From current executives, I'd love to see Phil Schiller. He's one of Steve's original team, loves the company and shares the vision.

Jony Ive wouldn't be good as CEO. He's a superb designer; he needs to be where he excels doing what he loves.

 

[BittenApple]

I vote for Phil Schiller.

 

[mscriv]

Outside of the hardcore fanboys I don't think the average consumer or shareholder cares all that much about the CEO as long as the company stays profitable and the products remain relevant. The further we get removed from Steve the less it will matter all that much in terms of celebrity or notoriety.