In a move that signals stability and a deep trust in its homegrown talent, Apple has named Sabih Khan, a seasoned executive born in Moradabad, India, as its next Chief Operating Officer (COO). Khan, who has been with the company for three decades, will step into one of the most critical roles in global technology, succeeding Jeff Williams later this month. His appointment highlights Apple’s strategy of promoting from within, ensuring that its complex global operations remain in experienced hands.
Khan’s journey at Apple began in 1995 when he joined the procurement group. Over the years, he has been a central figure in designing and managing the company’s vast and intricate supply chain. His steady rise through the ranks culminated in his appointment as senior vice president of Operations in 2019.
Apple CEO Tim Cook lauded Khan as a “brilliant strategist” and one of the key architects of the company’s supply chain. Cook credited him with pioneering new manufacturing technologies and skillfully navigating global operational challenges. This promotion is seen as a natural progression for an executive who has been instrumental to Apple’s ability to deliver innovative products at an immense scale.
The transition is marked by strong endorsements from the outgoing COO. Jeff Williams, who worked closely with Khan for 27 years, described him as “the most talented operations executive on the planet,” expressing full confidence in his ability to lead Apple’s operations into the future.
Khan’s influence extends beyond manufacturing and logistics. He has been a driving force behind Apple’s significant environmental initiatives. Under his leadership, the company has made substantial progress in reducing its carbon footprint through its supplier partnerships and a push for green manufacturing.
Furthermore, Khan oversees Apple’s supplier responsibility programs. These initiatives are focused on improving working conditions and providing educational opportunities for workers in Apple’s global production facilities, reflecting a holistic approach to operations that balances efficiency with ethical responsibility.
As COO, Khan will oversee Apple’s entire operations division, a massive undertaking that ensures products like the iPhone and Mac are built and delivered to the highest standards. His educational background, with degrees in both mechanical engineering and economics, has provided him with the unique blend of technical and strategic insight required for the role.
His elevation to one of the top positions at the world’s most valuable company is a powerful story of personal achievement. It also serves as a reminder to how global talent continues to be a driving force in Silicon Valley. While Sabih Khan has often worked behind the scenes, his contribution to Apple’s success has been huge.
