Apple Inc. has announced the appointment of Sabih Khan, an Indian-origin executive and current Senior Vice President of Operations, as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). The leadership change comes as long-time executive Jeff Williams, who has served as COO since 2015, is set to retire later this year after more than 25 years with the company.
Khan’s elevation to the role marks a significant moment for Apple’s leadership, placing him at the helm of global operations during a transformative time for the tech giant. The appointment is being seen as a strategic move to maintain Apple’s supply chain dominance and operational excellence amid shifting geopolitical and economic dynamics.
A Veteran Inside Apple’s Supply Chain Engine
Sabih Khan, who joined Apple in 1995, has worked behind the scenes for nearly three decades, playing a pivotal role in managing and scaling the company’s global supply chain and manufacturing processes. As Senior Vice President of Operations, he led teams responsible for ensuring that Apple’s products—including iPhones, iPads, and Macs—meet high standards of quality, safety, and environmental impact.
His work became especially critical during the COVID-19 pandemic when Apple had to navigate supply disruptions, factory shutdowns, and logistics challenges worldwide. Khan helped lead Apple’s supply chain adaptation, ensuring product continuity despite global bottlenecks.
Apple has highlighted Khan’s integral role in helping the company reduce its carbon footprint and push for sustainability across its global manufacturing footprint. His teams have been instrumental in Apple’s pledge to achieve carbon neutrality across its supply chain and products by 2030.
Indian Roots and Global Footprint
Born in Uttar Pradesh, India, Khan moved to Singapore at an early age and later pursued his higher education in the United States. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University, followed by a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Before joining Apple, Khan worked with GE Plastics, where he gained hands-on experience in materials science and manufacturing. His diverse global background, technical expertise, and long-standing career within Apple make him well-positioned to step into the COO role at a time when operational agility and geopolitical awareness are more important than ever.
Leadership Shift Amid Broader Transitions
Khan’s appointment follows the announcement of Jeff Williams' retirement, who has served as Tim Cook’s right-hand executive and was widely regarded as a potential successor to the Apple CEO. Williams joined Apple in 1998 and played a central role in launching the Apple Watch and overseeing health technologies.
The leadership reshuffle at Apple also reflects a generational shift and an internal elevation strategy, with Khan being the latest in a series of long-tenured Apple veterans to step into senior roles. Industry observers note that Khan’s deep understanding of Apple’s complex supplier networks in Asia, particularly China and India, will be essential as the company looks to diversify manufacturing and expand its production footprint in emerging markets.
Apple’s Strategic Priorities Ahead
Khan takes over at a time when Apple faces mounting challenges, including antitrust scrutiny, increased competition in global smartphone markets, and shifting consumer demands. In addition, Apple is ramping up its efforts in augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and spatial computing, all of which require robust operations support.
While the company has not disclosed whether Khan will oversee areas beyond hardware operations—like services, AI strategy, or product launches—his leadership is expected to strengthen Apple’s operational foundations as the company explores new frontiers.
His appointment also draws attention back to Apple’s ongoing efforts to increase manufacturing capabilities in India. Apple has been gradually shifting production of iPhones and other devices to Indian plants, a move that may receive further momentum under Khan’s leadership.
A Low-Profile Leader with High Stakes
Despite holding a senior role for years, Sabih Khan has largely maintained a low public profile. With his promotion to COO, he now becomes one of the most visible Indian-origin leaders in the global tech space, joining the ranks of Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Sundar Pichai (Google), and Arvind Krishna (IBM).
As Apple continues its journey in next-generation technologies and global market expansion, Khan’s tenure as COO will be closely watched. His leadership could play a defining role in shaping how the world’s most valuable company manages complexity, scales innovation, and sustains its operational edge.