In a major leadership shift, Apple on Tuesday named Indian-origin executive Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer, following the departure of Jeff Williams in what the company described as a well-orchestrated succession plan.
Khan, a three-decade Apple veteran and current Senior VP of Operations, will take on his new role later this month, managing the global supply chain, supplier accountability, and operational teams.
Born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, Sabih Khan relocated to Singapore during his schooling before moving to the United States. He earned dual undergraduate degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University, followed by a master’s in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).
Khan became part of Apple’s procurement team in 1995 following his role as an engineer and key technical lead at GE Plastics. Since then, he has played a vital role in bringing Apple’s leading products to market and directing its worldwide operational strategy.
Williams, the departing COO, will continue reporting to CEO Tim Cook, managing design and Apple Watch until his retirement later this year. Afterward, the design team will report straight to Cook.
Tim Cook lauded Jeff Williams, emphasising their longstanding collaboration and Williams’ pivotal role in establishing Apple’s global supply chain, introducing and advancing Apple Watch, driving health strategy, and guiding the design team with commitment and insight.
Cook also highlighted that under Khan’s leadership, Apple’s carbon footprint was reduced by more than 60%.
Tim Cook stated that Sabih, a sharp strategist and vital builder of Apple’s supply chain, has driven innovation in advanced manufacturing, grown Apple’s U.S. production, and maintained flexibility amid global challenges.Most importantly, Sabih leads with integrity and passion, making him an excellent choice for COO.
