Apple has appointed Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer, marking a key leadership transition as long-serving COO Jeff Williams prepares to retire at the end of July 2025.
The announcement marks a significant internal reorganisation as the IT behemoth prepares for a new era of industrial strategies, sustainability initiatives, and operational resilience.
Tim Cook pours encomiums on Sabih Khan
CEO Tim Cook refers to Khan as the “central architect” of Apple’s operational excellence. He is well-known for his ability to manage Apple’s global supply chain.
“Sabih is a brilliant and humble leader,” Tim Cook said in a company statement. “He’s been instrumental in building Apple’s world-class operations team and supply chain. His values, dedication, and deep expertise make him the perfect person to carry the role forward.”
Apple’s leadership transition takes place at a pivotal moment. The company’s operations must remain adaptable and resilient in the face of shifting trade laws, geopolitical upheaval, and a growing focus on environmental sustainability.
Sabih Khan’s portfolio
Born in Moradabad, India, in 1966, Sabih Khan attended his early schooling in Singapore before relocating to the United States.
He holds two bachelor’s degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Khan joined Apple in 1995 and has spent the last three decades overseeing various aspects of the business’s supply chain operations. His most recent role was Senior Vice President of Operations, where he was in charge of Apple’s worldwide procurement, logistics, and production operations.
Opportunities and challenges for Sabih Khan’s leadership
Khan’s promotion to COO comes with a lot of opportunities and challenges. The growing trade tensions worldwide, particularly between the US and China, are putting pressure on Apple to diversify its manufacturing and reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing.
Khan has already played a key role in Apple’s growth into India, a market for manufacturing, services, and sales.
Khan will oversee global operations, supply chain planning, logistics, and AppleCare in his new role. His hiring is anticipated to hasten Apple’s transition to more sustainable and moral purchasing procedures.
Jeff Williams to stay till late 2025 for smooth transition
Previously viewed as Tim Cook’s possible successor, Jeff Williams, who has been COO since 2015, will stay on for a short time to ensure a smooth transition before officially retiring in late 2025.
Jeff Williams will continue to manage Apple’s design operations and health initiatives during the transitional period.
It’s interesting to note that following his departure, Tim Cook will be the direct supervisor of Apple’s design team. Analysts believe this move will strengthen Cook’s hands-on management style.
Significant milestone in Apple’s corporate development
Although it may not have the glamour of a product launch, the hiring represents a significant turning point in Apple’s corporate development.
Sabih Khan, who is frequently referred to as “quietly effective,” is a prime example of Apple’s internal promotions policy and commitment to maintaining operational excellence without unnecessary disruption.
Industry experts believe that Khan’s composed leadership style and thorough knowledge of Apple’s core business processes could help the company address some of the most significant challenges facing today’s tech industry, such as supply chain resilience and climate responsibility.
With this strategic move, Apple demonstrates its intention to remain flexible, forward-thinking, and committed to its values—qualities that Sabih Khan has embodied throughout his long and vital career.
