Bob,
As I'm sure you've realized, I'm very happy to see Jobs back in the mix. But I can't put my finger on where he would best serve Apple with regard to his "official" position. He has said that he's not interested in being CEO. I take him at his word. And I'm not sure he would be the best choice anyhow. At this point, I'm leaning more toward Jobs as COB, presiding over this supercharged Board of Directors. The trick would be to get a CEO that works well with this mix. I think it's doable. On the other hand, I wouldn't have a problem with him becoming CEO/COB, except for the fact that he said he's not in the running. That would be a reversal at a time when I think straight shooting should be the order of the day. The idea of Steve and his board looming, mysteriously, in the background, would keep his presence in the company, without requiring him to be the front man.
I agree with much of Doren's Machiavellian analysis of recent events. I differ in that I have a hunch that the whole Ellision takeover play was cooked up by both Jobs and Ellison, which was never intended to go through. It provided positive media coverage for Apple (during a heavy quaterly loss) with the only negatives being aimed at Amelio. I think Amelio was already slated for an ouster, having done a great job in taking care of the bad guy stuff like lay-offs etc. Amelio was a fall guy that got to cry all the way to the bank. Now, in steps the shining knight, Steve Jobs. The prodigal son. And so far, with all due respect to Bill Jackson, I think he's kicking butt.
Regards,
Scott |
