Apple new COO 2025: Indian-origin executive Sabih Khan appointed as Apple’s Chief Operating Officer. Learn about his background, responsibilities, and what this means for Apple’s future.
Sabih Khan Appointed as Apple’s Next Chief Operating Officer
Strategic Leadership Transition at Apple
On July 8, 2025, Apple Inc. officially announced the promotion of Sabih Khan to Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective later this month, succeeding veteran executive Jeff Williams who will retire by year’s end. This appointment follows Apple’s long-planned leadership succession strategy and places Khan in charge of the company’s global supply chain and operations
Stellar Career of Sabih Khan
Born in 1966 in Moradabad, India, Sabih Khan relocated to Singapore at age 10, later moving to the United States to pursue higher education. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Economics from Tufts University and a master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Starting his career at GE Plastics as an engineer, he joined Apple in 1995 within its procurement group After rising through the ranks, he became Senior Vice‑President of Operations in 2019, overseeing planning, manufacturing, logistics, procurement, product quality, supplier responsibility, and sustainability programs
Role & Responsibilities as COO
In this elevated role, Khan will spearhead Apple’s entire operational portfolio: manufacturing, logistics, supplier partnerships, quality assurance, distribution, and sustainability efforts. His responsibilities also include strategic planning to adapt to manufacturing shifts and geopolitical changes, ensuring that Apple remains agile and robust
Addressing Global Challenges
Khan assumes leadership at a crucial time. The US administration is urging Apple to relocate iPhone production from China to the United States, threatening tariffs. Apple is also expanding production to India. Khan’s expertise in large-scale global sourcing and shift to green manufacturing will be essential amid these trade pressures
Organizational Restructuring & Continued Mentorship
Though Jeff Williams will continue through the rest of the year overseeing design teams and health initiatives, these units will eventually report directly to CEO Tim Cook upon his retirement Tim Cook praised both executives: lauding Williams for building Apple’s renowned supply chain and lauding Khan as “a brilliant strategist and one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain”
🧠 Why This News Is Important
Operational Masterstroke Amid Global Pressures
Apple’s decision to promote Sabih Khan is crucial in the context of shifting geopolitics and trade disruptions. With presidential-level threats of 25% tariffs on electronics manufactured in China, Apple must act swiftly to diversify its production base. Khan’s expertise in supply chain management, including moves to India and the US, positions the company to better navigate such volatility
Sustainability as a Strategic Axis
Under Khan’s leadership, Apple has slashed its carbon footprint by over 60%, aligning operations with evolving environmental regulations and growing consumer expectations. Sustainability is now central to defining supply chain resilience and global corporate reputation
Continuity Through Internal Promotion
Promoting from within reinforces stability and foresight in Apple’s leadership. The transition from Williams to Khan confirms Apple’s preference for internal succession planning, which ensures consistency during leadership change—a key exam point in organisational strategy .
🕰️ Historical Context
Apple’s Legacy of Internal Succession
Apple has a well-documented history of grooming internal talent. Former COO Tim Cook ascended to CEO, and his successor, Jeff Williams, steeped in operations, nearly became CEO before stepping down. Internal promotion maintains continuity and reassures stakeholders during transitions .
Supply Chain Evolution Through Crises
From navigating COVID‑19-related disruptions to robust diversification strategies across regions like India and the US, Apple’s supply chain has evolved as a cornerstone of its resilience. Sabih Khan has been a major driver of these transformations since joining the operations team in 2019, making it one of the most admired global supply systems
Environmental Sustainability Drive
Under Khan’s leadership, Apple has implemented green manufacturing initiatives, cutting emissions significantly. This aligns with worldwide carbon regulation trends—making Apple a forerunner in environmentally responsible tech manufacturing .
📌 Key Takeaways from “Sabih Khan Appointed as Apple’s Next COO”
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sabih Khan, with a 30-year career at Apple, will officially become COO in late July 2025. |
| 2 | He succeeds Jeff Williams, who will retire after transitioning design & health oversight to the CEO. |
| 3 | Khan’s educational background: dual bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering & Economics (Tufts), plus a master’s in Mechanical Engineering (RPI). |
| 4 | As COO, he’ll manage Apple’s global supply chain, manufacturing, logistics, product quality, procurement, and sustainability operations. |
| 5 | His promotion is vital for Apple to navigate trade tensions, manufacturing diversification, and strengthen its green manufacturing initiatives. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Apple’s track record on sustainability under Khan’s leadership?
Under Khan’s guidance, Apple has reduced its carbon footprint by over 60%, making strides in green manufacturing.
Who is Sabih Khan?
Sabih Khan is an Indian-origin American executive who has been appointed as the next Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Apple Inc.
When was Sabih Khan appointed as Apple’s COO?
Apple announced Sabih Khan’s appointment as COO on July 8, 2025. He will assume office later in the month.
Whom does Sabih Khan succeed as COO at Apple?
He succeeds Jeff Williams, Apple’s long-serving Chief Operating Officer who will retire by the end of 2025.
What are the key responsibilities of the COO at Apple?
The COO oversees Apple’s global operations including manufacturing, logistics, procurement, product quality, supplier responsibility, and sustainability.
Why is Sabih Khan’s appointment significant for Apple’s future?
His leadership comes at a crucial time when Apple is facing global supply chain challenges, especially concerning the relocation of production out of China.
What is Sabih Khan’s educational background?
He holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Economics from Tufts University, and a master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Which other major positions has Sabih Khan held at Apple?
Before becoming COO, he served as Senior Vice President of Operations since 2019.
How long has Sabih Khan been with Apple?
He joined Apple in 1995, making his journey with the company span three decades.
What major global issues is Apple facing that impact Khan’s role?
Apple is under pressure to diversify its supply chain from China to other countries like India and the USA due to geopolitical tensions and tariff threats.
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