Apple names Arthur Levinson as chairman

FRUIT THEMED Apple has named Arthur Levinson, PhD as its non-executive chairman of the board of directors, and has bought in Robert Iger, president and CEO of The Walt Disney Company as a director.

"Art has made enormous contributions to Apple since he joined the board in 2000. He has been our longest serving co-lead director, and his insight and leadership are incredibly valuable to Apple, our employees and our shareholders," said Tim Cook, Apple's CEO in a statement.

Levinson earned his role at Apple when he chose to keep his seat on its board over his seat at Google during a time when it looked like the two firms were getting too cosy. Perhaps it was his decision to stick with the cappuccino company then that earned him the chairmanship.

"I am honored to be named chairman of Apple's board and welcome Bob to our team," Levinson said. "Apple is always focused on out-innovating itself through the delivery of truly innovative products that simplify and improve our lives, and that is something I am very proud to be a part of."

Levinson assumes a chair left open by Steve Jobs, who resigned from his position as CEO in August and passed away in October, and inherits a legacy of innovative design and high sales. When Jobs announced that he was resigning as CEO it was Apple's Levinson that was on hand with a solemn word and a congratulatory welcome to the Chairman's seat.

It is an appointment that many Apple watchers have waited for, as some felt that without having an actual leader in place the firm could falter, but they may worry no more.

Having been at Apple for almost a decade, Levinson is likely to be a good fit as its Chairman, a role that he co-owned with Jobs for a while, and he will undoubtedly be in line with the firm, its currrent plans and developments, and its expectations. µ