Who Is Sabih Khan? Meet Apple’s New Indian-Origin Chief Operating Officer

Apple Inc., the world’s most valuable tech company, has officially announced a major leadership transition. Sabih Khan, an Indian-origin executive and a 30-year Apple veteran, will take over as the Chief Operating Officer (COO), succeeding long-time operations chief Jeff Williams, who is set to retire later this year.

This strategic appointment reflects Apple’s continued commitment to global innovation, sustainable practices, and resilient supply chains—areas where Khan has already made substantial contributions.

Sabih Khan: A Journey From Moradabad to Apple HQ

Born in 1966 in Moradabad, a city in western Uttar Pradesh, India, Sabih Khan's early life was marked by a significant move when his family relocated to Singapore during his school years. Eventually, the family settled in the United States, where Khan pursued higher education and launched a distinguished career in engineering and technology.

Khan earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University, followed by a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Early Career and Rise at Apple

Before joining Apple, Sabih Khan worked at GE Plastics as an applications development engineer and technical leader. His entry into Apple came in 1995, when he joined the company's procurement group. Over the decades, Khan steadily rose through the ranks, gaining recognition for his strategic foresight and operational excellence.

In June 2019, he was named Senior Vice President of Operations, directly reporting to then-COO Jeff Williams. His role expanded significantly, encompassing oversight of Apple’s global supply chain, manufacturing, logistics, procurement, and product fulfillment.

Key Contributions at Apple

Sabih Khan has been instrumental in shaping Apple’s robust and adaptable operations. Among his many achievements:

• Global Supply Chain Leadership: Khan oversaw Apple’s worldwide operations, ensuring seamless product delivery and supply chain resilience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and global semiconductor shortages.

• Green Manufacturing & Sustainability: Khan played a leading role in Apple’s push toward carbon neutrality, helping reduce the company's carbon footprint by over 60%. He fostered strong relationships with environmentally conscious suppliers and championed Apple’s supplier responsibility programs, focusing on worker rights, education, and eco-friendly practices.

• Advanced Manufacturing Expansion: Under his guidance, Apple significantly grew its US-based manufacturing footprint, contributing to local job creation and reducing dependency on foreign production lines.

Apple CEO Tim Cook Praises Khan

Commenting on the appointment, CEO Tim Cook hailed Khan as a “brilliant strategist” and “one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain.” He emphasized Khan’s vital contributions to sustainability, manufacturing innovation, and Apple’s ability to quickly respond to global challenges.

“Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and values,” Cook added. “I have tremendous confidence in Apple’s future under his leadership in this role.”

Transition Timeline and Jeff Williams’ New Role

Sabih Khan will formally take over the COO role later this month, completing a long-planned succession. Jeff Williams, who has served Apple for nearly three decades, will continue to work closely with Tim Cook, overseeing the design team and Apple’s health initiatives until his official retirement by the end of 2025.

A Historic Milestone for Indian-Origin Leadership

Khan’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Indian-origin professionals in global tech leadership. His rise to Apple’s No. 2 position showcases not only his journey of resilience and vision but also highlights Apple’s commitment to diverse global leadership in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

With Sabih Khan stepping in as Apple’s new Chief Operating Officer, the company is poised to continue its trajectory of operational excellence, sustainability, and innovation. As Apple navigates complex global challenges and technological shifts, Khan’s leadership promises to play a defining role in the company’s next chapter.

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