On July 8, 2025, Apple announced a significant leadership transition, appointing Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), succeeding Jeff Williams in a carefully planned succession. Khan, a 30-year veteran of Apple and its Senior Vice President of Operations since 2019, steps into the role later this month, bringing decades of expertise in managing one of the world’s most sophisticated supply chains. As Apple navigates challenges like declining iPhone sales, global trade complexities, and ambitious sustainability goals, Khan’s appointment signals a commitment to operational excellence and continuity. Here’s an in-depth look at Khan’s journey, his contributions, and what his leadership means for Apple’s future.
A Proven Leader with Deep Roots at Apple
Sabih Khan, born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, has been a cornerstone of Apple’s operations since joining the company in 1995. With a dual bachelor’s degree in Economics and Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University and a master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Khan brought a blend of technical and strategic expertise to Apple’s procurement group. Prior to Apple, he honed his skills as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader at GE Plastics, laying the foundation for his operational acumen.
Over his 30-year tenure, Khan has risen through the ranks, becoming Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019 and reporting directly to then-COO Jeff Williams. In this role, he has overseen Apple’s global supply chain, managing critical functions such as planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment. His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring the timely delivery of iconic products like the iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch, while maintaining Apple’s reputation for quality and innovation.
Architect of Apple’s World-Class Supply Chain
Khan’s most notable achievement is his role as a “central architect” of Apple’s supply chain, as described by CEO Tim Cook. Under his stewardship, Apple has built one of the most respected and resilient supply chains in the world, capable of navigating global challenges like trade tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical shifts. Khan has driven innovation in advanced manufacturing, introducing new technologies that enhance efficiency and precision in production processes.
A key focus of Khan’s tenure has been expanding Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, aligning with the company’s strategy to diversify production beyond China amid U.S.-China trade tensions. His efforts have also bolstered Apple’s ability to remain agile, ensuring the company can adapt to market demands and global disruptions. For instance, Khan has played a pivotal role in shifting some of Apple’s manufacturing to India, where the company is strengthening its presence as both a market and a production hub. This move is particularly timely as India emerges as a critical player in Apple’s global strategy.
Championing Sustainability and Supplier Responsibility
Beyond operational efficiency, Khan has been a driving force behind Apple’s ambitious environmental goals. Under his leadership, Apple has reduced its carbon footprint by more than 60%, a significant milestone in the company’s journey toward carbon neutrality. By partnering with suppliers to adopt green manufacturing practices, Khan has helped conserve resources and minimize environmental impact. His oversight of Apple’s supplier responsibility programs has also prioritized worker welfare, implementing initiatives to protect and educate employees at production facilities worldwide. These efforts reflect Khan’s values-driven leadership, which Cook has praised as leading “with heart and integrity.”
As COO, Khan is expected to expand his influence, potentially overseeing additional business units like AppleCare, further integrating customer support into Apple’s operational framework. His holistic approach—balancing innovation, sustainability, and employee welfare—positions him as a leader capable of steering Apple through a complex global landscape.
A Planned Succession: Jeff Williams’ Legacy and Transition
The transition from Jeff Williams to Sabih Khan marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Apple. Williams, who has served as COO since 2015 and been with Apple for 27 years, has been a key figure in shaping the company’s operational and design strategies. He played a critical role in launching the Apple Watch, architecting Apple’s health initiatives, and leading its world-class design team. Until his retirement later in 2025, Williams will continue to report to Tim Cook, overseeing the design team and health initiatives, including the Apple Watch. Post-retirement, the design team will report directly to Cook, streamlining decision-making processes.
Williams, reflecting on his tenure, expressed confidence in Khan’s leadership, calling him “the most talented operations executive on the planet.” His endorsement underscores the seamless nature of this succession, which has been planned for years to ensure continuity. Williams’ contributions, including building Apple’s global supply chain and fostering innovation, have left an indelible mark, and Khan is well-positioned to build on this legacy.
What Khan’s Leadership Means for Apple’s Future
Khan’s appointment as COO comes at a pivotal moment for Apple. The company faces challenges such as declining iPhone sales in mature markets, regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. and Europe, and the need to rebuild its AI leadership following a key executive departure to Meta. Khan’s expertise in supply chain management and his ability to navigate geopolitical complexities will be critical as Apple continues to diversify its manufacturing and strengthen its global operations. His focus on sustainability aligns with Apple’s commitment to environmental responsibility, a priority that resonates with consumers and investors alike.
Moreover, Khan’s Indian heritage and his rise from Moradabad to Apple’s C-suite highlight the company’s emphasis on nurturing global talent. His appointment is a source of pride for the Indian diaspora and underscores Apple’s growing investment in India as a manufacturing and market hub. As COO, Khan is expected to drive operational efficiency, innovate manufacturing processes, and ensure Apple remains agile in a rapidly changing tech landscape.
A Strategic Move for Continuity and Innovation
Apple’s decision to promote Khan reflects its strategy of fostering internal talent and maintaining operational stability. Unlike external hires, Khan’s 30-year tenure ensures deep institutional knowledge and alignment with Apple’s core values. His promotion signals confidence in Apple’s ability to evolve while staying true to its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. As one X post noted, Khan’s “supply chain mastery could boost profits,” highlighting the optimism surrounding his leadership.
The leadership transition also positions Apple to address emerging challenges, such as regulatory pressures on its App Store policies and the need to diversify production amid U.S.-China trade dynamics. Khan’s proven track record in managing these complexities makes him an ideal choice to lead Apple’s operations into the future.
Conclusion
The appointment of Sabih Khan as Apple’s new Chief Operating Officer on July 8, 2025, marks a significant milestone for the tech giant. With 30 years of experience, a deep understanding of Apple’s global supply chain, and a commitment to sustainability and worker welfare, Khan is poised to steer the company toward continued operational excellence. As Jeff Williams transitions to retirement, Khan’s leadership ensures that Apple remains innovative, agile, and values-driven. For the latest updates on Apple’s leadership and strategy, visit Apple’s official website or follow trusted tech news sources. With Khan at the helm of operations, Apple’s future looks as promising as its past.
Last Updated on: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 4:55 pm by R Sampath Kumar | Published by: R Sampath Kumar on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 4:55 pm | News Categories: Technology
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