Apple Names Indian-Origin Sabih Khan as New COO in Leadership Shift

Apple has appointed Sabih Khan, a 30-year veteran of Indian origin, as its new Chief Operating Officer, succeeding Jeff Williams in a planned transition. Khan, previously Senior Vice President of Operations since 2019, will assume the role later this month, overseeing Apple’s global supply chain and operations.

Born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, Khan moved to Singapore during his school years and later to the U.S., earning dual bachelor’s degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University and a master’s in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Before joining Apple’s procurement team in 1995, he worked as an applications development engineer at GE Plastics.

CEO Tim Cook praised Khan’s strategic leadership, noting, “Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has pioneered advanced manufacturing technologies, expanded Apple’s U.S. manufacturing footprint, and driven a over 60% reduction in our carbon footprint.” Khan’s efforts have ensured Apple’s agility amid global challenges, including supply chain disruptions and tariff pressures.

Also Read: Japan Bolsters Southwest Defense with Osprey Fleet Deployment

Jeff Williams, who served as COO since 2015, will continue reporting to Cook, overseeing the Apple Watch, design team, and health initiatives until his retirement later this year, after which the design team will report directly to Cook.

Khan’s elevation coincides with Apple’s growing focus on India as a manufacturing hub and key market, amid efforts to diversify production from China due to U.S. tariffs. His leadership is expected to navigate Apple through slowing iPhone sales and regulatory challenges.

Also Read: Trump’s Tariffs Cloud Rubio’s Asia Diplomatic Debut