Sabih Khan Takes Over as Apple COO in Strategic Power Shift

Apple has announced a leadership change, appointing Sabih Khan as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Khan will succeed Jeff Williams, who will continue to report to CEO Tim Cook and oversee Apple's design team and Apple Watch. This transition is part of a long-planned succession strategy. Khan, currently the senior vice president of operations, will assume his new role later this month.

Khan's journey with Apple began in 1995 when he joined the procurement team after working at GE Plastics. His career at Apple spans three decades, during which he has been instrumental in shaping the company's global operational strategy and bringing innovative products to market. In 2019, he was appointed senior vice president of operations, reporting directly to Jeff Williams.

Sabih Khan's Background

Born in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh in 1966, Khan moved with his family to Singapore during his school years before relocating to the United States. 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 (RPI) in New York.

In his current role, Khan oversees Apple's global supply chain and supplier responsibility programmes. He has also led efforts to establish partnerships with green manufacturing suppliers and adapt supplier operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tim Cook's Praise for Khan

Apple CEO Tim Cook commended Khan as a key architect of Apple's supply chain. Cook highlighted Khan's contributions to advanced manufacturing technologies and expanding US manufacturing. "Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple's supply chain," said Cook.

Cook also noted that under Khan's leadership, Apple's carbon footprint has reduced by over 60 per cent due to his focus on environmental sustainability. "Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values, and I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer," Cook added.

The transition marks a significant step for Apple as it continues its commitment to innovation and sustainability under new leadership. As COO, Khan is expected to further enhance Apple's operational strategies while maintaining its reputation for cutting-edge technology.