Steve Jobs’ resignation from the position of Apple CEO signals the end of a remarkable period in the computer giant’s history. In 1997, the year Jobs returned to Apple, the company was floundering. Ho-hum products and monetary waste had taken their toll. This once-shiny Apple now seemed rotten to the core. As if waving a magic wand, Jobs restored the company’s prowess with an inspired product lineup consisting of a revitalized Mac, and the three i’s – pod, phone, and pad. But there’s a void in the company now that this leader is leaving. To fill the emptiness, Jobs will be crafting a perpetual succession strategy capable of carving out a future of winning leaders and products.
This is a great first step. But if Apple expects to continue the success achieved by its former leader, the company will have to nurture his policy of creative, ‘different’ thinking channeled through teamwork. When 60 Minutes questioned Jobs about his business model, the CEO cited the world’s most famous quartet of musicians. “My model for business is The Beatles,” he declared. “They were four guys that kept each other’s negative tendencies in check; they balanced each other. And the total was greater than the sum of the parts. Great things in business are not done by one person. They are done by a team of people.”
Apple, of course, doesn’t have a monopoly on out-of-the box thinking. 3M, for instance, has made many a bold stride thanks to its policy of rewarding teamwork and innovative product idea people, no matter who or where they are.
The fact that innovative thinking has many potential sources bodes well for Apple. But the company needs a leader who can inspire the troops. Indeed, Tim Cook is a strong and capable COO. But for product innovations, the company really needs a wild card…Somebody with a wealth of creative ideas and an unquenchable passion for execution.
As I mulled over the situation, two ideas bloomed:
- Apple could fund (with a bit of its $75 billion cash) a global prize for inventors. Much like the Nobel Peace Prize.
- The company could develop an entirely new position – CDO (Chief Development Officer). This specially selected creative visionary would oversee new products and serve as Apple’s #1 pitch man.
Perhaps you have some creative solutions that will keep the Apple shining. Feel free to fire off your comments below. And, of course, if you have any questions, be sure to send them our way as well. You can connect with The Young Company team at 949-376-8404 #205 or byoung@youngcompany.com. And be sure to follow us for the latest industry news and tips.