Apple Inc. has announced the appointment of Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective later this month. Khan, a 30-year veteran of the company, will succeed Jeff Williams, who is set to retire by the end of 2025 after a decade in the role. This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time as Apple navigates complex global supply chain challenges and intensifies efforts to diversify its manufacturing footprint beyond China.
Born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, Khan moved to Singapore during his early years before pursuing higher education in the United States. He holds dual bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering and economics from Tufts University and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Prior to joining Apple in 1995, Khan worked at GE Plastics as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader.
At Apple, Khan has been instrumental in shaping the company’s global operations. Since being appointed Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019, he has overseen Apple’s vast supply chain, manufacturing, logistics, and supplier responsibility programs. His leadership has been crucial in expanding Apple’s manufacturing presence in the United States and advancing environmental sustainability initiatives. Under his guidance, Apple has significantly reduced its carbon footprint and strengthened its commitment to ethical labor practices across its supply chain.
CEO Tim Cook praised Khan as “a brilliant strategist and one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain,” highlighting his role in pioneering advanced manufacturing technologies and ensuring Apple’s agility in response to global challenges. Cook emphasized Khan’s values-driven leadership, stating, “Sabih leads with his heart and his values, and I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer.”
The transition in leadership aligns with Apple’s broader strategic objectives. The company has been under increasing pressure to reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing due to escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and calls for greater domestic production. Khan is expected to play a key role in accelerating Apple’s efforts to diversify its supply chain, including expanding operations in countries like India. This move is seen as critical to mitigating geopolitical risks and enhancing the resilience of Apple’s production capabilities.
Jeff Williams, who joined Apple in 1998 and became COO in 2015, will continue to oversee the company’s design team, Apple Watch, and health initiatives until his retirement later this year. Upon his departure, the design team will report directly to CEO Tim Cook. Williams has been a pivotal figure in Apple’s evolution, contributing to the development of key products and the establishment of a robust global supply chain.
Khan’s promotion is part of a long-planned succession strategy, reflecting Apple’s commitment to internal leadership development and continuity. His extensive experience and deep understanding of Apple’s operational intricacies position him to steer the company through an era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting global dynamics.
As Apple continues to innovate and expand its global reach, Khan’s leadership will be central to maintaining the company’s operational excellence and adapting to the evolving demands of the technology industry.
