Engadget LigerWith a 10% drop in Apple shares [after Steve Jobs announced his step down through June], it’s painfully obvious that the smart investor is keen to the problems surrounding his exit. Or for that matter — any CEO’s exit.

Losing the quarterback, the innovator, the game saver of the #1 ranked company on FORTUNE’s top 50 list — could it end up being a recipe for disaster?

Many of Apple’s ideas, insight and visionary ways were born from Steve Jobs. Known for his aggressive and zesty leadership, Jobs rocketed Apple back to the forefront of sexy and savvy tech devices. On his watch, Apple — with their near bullet-proof design niche — fought back from threat of bankruptcy in the 90s to become an award-winning enterprise that other tech company’s envy.

But can Apple continue without Jobs? I think yes. The answer is clear by looking at their product line, marketing strategy and above all, it’s executive staff. Jobs did his homework and assembled a turnkey team ready to take Apple’s reigns and charge:

  • Tim Cook - Chief Operating Officer (Formerly of Compaq and IBM) – In charge of, well, pretty much everything – Jobs’ right-hand man – next CEO(?)
  • Peter Oppenheimer - CFO (ex-Coopers & Lybrand consultant) – Apple’s connection to Wall Street – and he holds the purse strings on $25 billion in Apple capital
  • Ron Johnson - Senior VP, Retail (ex-VP of Merchandising, Target) – The guy behind 247 revenue cranking Apple Stores

Ahead of any close competitor in design and with a knack for packing bleeding edge specs under a small hood — Apple sells some of the hottest quality gear on the market. If they continue to sell high-end niche equipment to sharp-eyed consumers — the folks at Apple will continue to lay waste in the tech world.

One suggestion to Tim Cook though: Consider doing a Mac version of the booming netbook.