Iger’s inclusion to the board of directors of Apple would only help the company’s cause as the two companies have been tight partners in recent years. Iger would be occupying Jobs’ seat, which has been vacant since the time of passing away of Jobs.
Apple’s current CEO Tim Cook was all praise for Iger as he said in a statement, that Iger will “make an extraordinary addition.” He continued stating, “His strategic vision for Disney is based on three fundamentals: generating the best creative content possible, fostering innovation and utilizing the latest technology, and expanding into new markets around the world which makes him a great fit for Apple.”
Talking about the linking of Apple and Disney, Steve Jobs became the largest shareholder of Disney, when he acquired Pixar. Jobs was the basic link between the two companies and was the one who cemented the relationship between Apple and Disney.
Robert Iger
It was even noted that Arthur Levinson will become the non-executive chairman of the board. Levinson, chairman and former CEO of Genentech, has been a board member for more than 5 years. Levinson is Apple’s longest serving lead director. Basically, Levinson is stepping into Steve Jobs’ shoes as he is appointed as the successor to Steve Jobs as Apple’s non-executive chairman.
Cook even had a note to praise Levinson in a press release on Tuesday. He said, “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.”
Iger, without any doubt would be an asset for Apple as he carries on his shoulders vast experience about being successful and also has deep knowledge of the content and creative businesses to Apple. Additionally, he was a good friend of Jobs too.
Apart from Iger’s experience and knowledge, Apple seems to be calling him in the company’s BOD for a number of reasons. Apple had noted a few of them in its own press release, when they appointed Iger. It was noted that Iger presides over the world’s largest media company, but more importantly he sits on the US-China Business Council. This can prove to e all good for Apple’s future as China is basically Apple’s second-most important regional market, only after the U.S. Moreover, it’s also ended up being one of the largest distributors of media through its iTunes and App stores.
The results might be still awaited, but the outcome can be in Apple’s favor majorly. However, the company would have to take a few steps even to keep a number of queries and controversies out of the box, especially ones related to iOS 5 and iPhone 4S battery issues.