CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA: Apple Inc. announced a major leadership transition as Sabih Khan, currently Senior Vice President of Operations, will assume the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) later this month. This follows the scheduled departure of Jeff Williams, who has held the position since 2015.
The decision, described by Apple as part of a “long-planned succession,” positions Khan at the forefront of one of the world’s most valuable technology companies. Khan’s elevation marks a significant milestone in Apple’s operational strategy, particularly as the company continues to expand its manufacturing and environmental sustainability initiatives globally.
From Moradabad to Cupertino: Khan’s Global Rise
Born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, Sabih Khan’s early life took him across continents. His family relocated to Singapore during his schooling years and eventually settled in the United States. Khan earned dual bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering and economics from Tufts University, followed by a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York.
Khan’s professional journey began at GE Plastics, where he worked as an applications development engineer. He joined Apple in 1995, gradually rising through the ranks. By 2019, he had taken charge as SVP of Operations, overseeing the company’s vast global supply chain and key sustainability initiatives.
In a statement, Apple CEO Tim Cook praised Khan as a “brilliant strategist” whose efforts have helped reduce Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60%. He also credited Khan with driving Apple’s manufacturing expansion in the United States.
“Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values,” said Cook. “I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer.”
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Jeff Williams also endorsed the transition, calling Khan “the most talented operations executive on the planet” and expressing confidence in Apple’s future under his leadership.
Khan’s appointment comes at a time when Apple is navigating challenges related to supply chain realignment, manufacturing localisation, and climate responsibility—areas where Khan has already left a significant mark.
About the Author – Sahhil Taware is a B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, with a keen interest in corporate law and tech-driven legal change.