Apple Announces Leadership Transition: Sabih Khan to Succeed Jeff Williams as Chief Operating Officer
Apple Inc. announced today a significant leadership transition in its executive ranks. Jeff Williams, Apple’s long-serving Chief Operating Officer, will officially pass the torch to Sabih Khan, the company’s Senior Vice President of Operations, later this month. The move comes as part of a carefully planned succession strategy that underscores Apple’s commitment to stability and innovation in its leadership.
Although stepping down from his COO role, Williams is not retiring immediately. He will continue to report directly to Apple CEO Tim Cook, retaining oversight of two major areas: the Apple Watch and the company’s Health initiatives. He will also continue leading Apple’s renowned design team until his full retirement, which is anticipated later this year. At that time, Apple’s design organization will transition to report directly to Cook.
Reflecting on Williams’ contributions, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared high praise for his longtime colleague.
“Jeff and I have worked alongside each other for as long as I can remember, and Apple wouldn’t be what it is without him,” said Cook. “He’s helped to create one of the most respected global supply chains in the world; launched Apple Watch and overseen its development; architected Apple’s health strategy; and led our world-class team of designers with great wisdom, heart, and dedication. I am and will always be beyond grateful for his numerous contributions to Apple over the years and his loyal friendship. Jeff’s true legacy can be seen in the amazing team he’s created and, while he’ll be greatly missed, he leaves the work of the future in incredible hands.”
Williams, who celebrated his 27th anniversary with Apple in June, also commented on his forthcoming departure.
“I have a deep love for Apple. Working with all of the amazing people at this company has been a privilege of a lifetime, and I can’t thank Tim enough for the opportunity, his inspirational leadership, and our friendship over the years,” said Williams. “June marked my 27th anniversary with Apple, and my 40th in the industry. Beginning next year, I plan to spend more time with friends and family, including five grandchildren and counting. I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Sabih for 27 years and I think he’s the most talented operations executive on the planet. I have tremendous confidence in Apple’s future under his leadership in this role.”
Sabih Khan, Williams’ successor, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. A 30-year Apple veteran, Khan joined the executive team as Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019. For the past six years, he has led Apple’s global supply chain — a monumental task that includes managing product quality, manufacturing, logistics, and fulfillment. He has also overseen the company’s supplier responsibility programs, which are focused on ethical sourcing and improving labor conditions around the world.
Under Khan’s leadership, Apple has significantly expanded its global manufacturing footprint, including efforts in the United States, India, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. He has played a critical role in driving Apple’s commitment to sustainability, working closely with suppliers to implement environmentally responsible manufacturing practices. These efforts have contributed to Apple reducing its carbon footprint by over 60%.
“Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain,” said Cook. “While overseeing Apple’s supply chain, he has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen the expansion of Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and helped ensure that Apple can be nimble in response to global challenges. He has advanced our ambitious efforts in environmental sustainability, helping reduce Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60 percent. Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values, and I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer.”
Khan’s background prior to Apple is just as impressive. Before joining the company’s procurement division in 1995, he worked at GE Plastics as an applications development engineer and technical leader for key accounts. He holds dual bachelor’s degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University, and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
As Apple navigates a new chapter in its operations leadership, the company remains committed to the same principles that have guided its success — innovation, integrity, and excellence in execution. With Khan at the helm of operations and Williams continuing to shape key initiatives until his retirement, Apple’s future appears to be in capable and experienced hands.