Given the inevitable reaction to the resignation of Apple CEO Steve Jobs in the markets, it wasn't going to take long before the company issued an official statement.

As expected, the firm has paid its respects to Jobs, hailing him as a visionary that had led Apple from success to another in recent years.

However, the statement also takes time to build up Tim Cook's hand, who – as expected – will move up from his current role as COO to take on Jobs' position at the top of the company.

Moving on up

"Steve's extraordinary vision and leadership saved Apple and guided it to its position as the world's most innovative and valuable technology company," said Genentech chairman Art Levinson on behalf of Apple's board.

"Steve has made countless contributions to Apple’s success, and he has attracted and inspired Apple's immensely creative employees and world class executive team."

Jobs will now take up his new role as chairman of Apple's board, which itself welcomed Cook's appointment as his successor.

Cooking up a storm

"The Board has complete confidence that Tim is the right person to be our next CEO," added Levinson.

"Tim's 13 years of service to Apple have been marked by outstanding performance, and he has demonstrated remarkable talent and sound judgement in everything he does."

The release also notes Cook's previous achievements at Apple, pointing out he was responsible for all the of company's worldwide sales and operations, as well as heading up Apple’s Macintosh division.

[source: Apple]