Cupertino, July 9, 2025 – In a landmark leadership transition, Apple Inc. has named Sabih Khan, a 30-year veteran of the company, as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective later this month. Khan, an Indian-origin executive born in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, succeeds Jeff Williams, who will retire after nearly three decades of service. This appointment, announced on July 8, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for Apple as it navigates a complex global landscape marked by supply chain challenges, geopolitical tensions, and a push for sustainability. With Khan’s extensive experience and proven track record, Apple is poised to strengthen its operational resilience and innovation under his leadership.
A Journey from Moradabad to Silicon Valley
Born in 1966 in Moradabad, a city known for its brass handicraft industry, Sabih Khan’s path to Apple’s C-suite is a testament to determination and expertise. At age 10, Khan moved with his family to Singapore, later settling in the United States, where he pursued a dual bachelor’s degree in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University, followed by a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). His academic foundation in both technical and economic disciplines laid the groundwork for a career that blends strategic foresight with operational precision.
Before joining Apple in 1995, Khan honed his skills as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader at GE Plastics (now SABIC). His early experience in technical leadership and client relations equipped him with the tools to navigate complex operational ecosystems, a skill that would prove invaluable at Apple.
Architect of Apple’s Global Supply Chain
Khan’s ascent to COO is no surprise to those familiar with his contributions at Apple. Since joining the company’s procurement group in 1995, he has risen through the ranks, becoming Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019, reporting directly to Jeff Williams. In this role, Khan has overseen Apple’s global supply chain, managing critical functions such as planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, product fulfillment, and supplier responsibility programs. His leadership has been instrumental in maintaining Apple’s reputation for delivering cutting-edge products with unmatched efficiency.
Apple CEO Tim Cook praised Khan as a “brilliant strategist” and a “central architect” of the company’s supply chain, highlighting his ability to ensure operational agility during global challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Khan’s team swiftly adapted Apple’s supply chain to maintain production efficiency despite widespread disruptions, ensuring that products like the iPhone and Mac reached consumers without significant delays. His strategic oversight also extended to expanding Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, aligning with calls from U.S. leadership, including President Donald Trump, to bolster domestic production.
Jeff Williams, Khan’s predecessor and mentor for 27 years, described him as “the most talented operations executive on the planet,” underscoring the trust and respect Khan commands within Apple. This endorsement reflects Khan’s ability to blend operational excellence with a collaborative leadership style, a combination that has earned him a reputation as a quiet yet formidable force behind Apple’s success.
A Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
One of Khan’s standout achievements has been his leadership in advancing Apple’s environmental sustainability goals. Under his oversight, Apple reduced its carbon footprint by more than 60%, a milestone that aligns with the company’s ambitious target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. Khan has driven initiatives in ethical sourcing, recycling programs, and the adoption of renewable energy across Apple’s supply chain, ensuring that sustainability is woven into the company’s operational DNA.
Khan’s innovative approach extends beyond sustainability. He has pioneered advanced manufacturing techniques, enabling Apple to maintain its edge in producing high-quality, technologically sophisticated products. His work has also strengthened Apple’s supplier responsibility programs, ensuring ethical labor practices and environmental standards across its global network of partners. These efforts position Apple to meet growing consumer and regulatory demands for transparency and responsibility in tech manufacturing.
Navigating a Complex Global Landscape
As COO, Khan steps into a role that places him second only to CEO Tim Cook, overseeing critical operations including AppleCare and global supply chain management. His appointment comes at a critical juncture for Apple, as the company faces challenges such as declining iPhone sales, intensifying regulatory scrutiny worldwide, and escalating U.S.-China trade tensions. Khan’s expertise in supply chain resilience will be crucial as Apple navigates semiconductor shortages, geopolitical risks, and the need to diversify its manufacturing base.
Khan’s strategic vision is expected to further Apple’s efforts to expand production in regions like India, where the company has increased its manufacturing presence in recent years. This move not only mitigates risks associated with over-reliance on China but also aligns with India’s growing importance in Apple’s global strategy. Khan’s cultural roots and understanding of the Indian market could prove advantageous as Apple deepens its investment in the region.
A Milestone for Indian-Origin Leadership
Khan’s appointment adds to the growing prominence of Indian-origin executives in global tech leadership, joining the ranks of Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Sundar Pichai (Google), and Indra Nooyi (formerly PepsiCo). His rise from Moradabad to one of the most influential roles in the world’s most valuable company underscores the increasing impact of Indian talent on the global stage. As posts on X reflect, there is significant pride in Khan’s achievement, with users highlighting his journey and its implications for diversity in tech leadership.
What Lies Ahead for Apple Under Khan’s Leadership
As Sabih Khan prepares to assume the COO role, all eyes are on how he will shape Apple’s future. His track record suggests a focus on operational efficiency, sustainability, and adaptability, but the challenges ahead are formidable. From managing supply chain disruptions to advancing Apple’s innovation pipeline, Khan’s leadership will be critical in maintaining the company’s position as a global tech leader. With the design team now reporting directly to Tim Cook, Khan can focus on streamlining operations and driving strategic initiatives that align with Apple’s long-term vision.
Apple’s announcement of Khan’s appointment as part of a “long-planned succession” signals confidence in his ability to carry forward the legacy of operational excellence established by Jeff Williams. As Williams transitions to overseeing the design team and Apple Watch division until his retirement later this year, Khan’s role will be to ensure that Apple remains agile and innovative in an increasingly competitive and unpredictable market.
A New Chapter for Apple
Sabih Khan’s appointment as Apple’s COO is more than a leadership change; it is a strategic move to fortify the company’s operational foundation in a rapidly evolving global landscape. With his deep expertise, commitment to sustainability, and ability to navigate complex challenges, Khan is well-positioned to lead Apple’s operations into the future. As the tech giant continues to innovate and expand, Khan’s leadership will undoubtedly shape the next chapter of Apple’s storied legacy.
Last Updated on: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 5:52 pm by Aagya Agarwal | Published by: Aagya Agarwal on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 5:52 pm | News Categories: Business Saga News
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