In a significant leadership transition at Apple Inc., long-serving executive Sabih Khan is set to take over as the company’s Chief Operating Officer later this month. This carefully planned leadership shift comes at a critical juncture as Apple navigates global supply disruptions and intensifying international trade tensions.
Khan, who originally hails from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, moved to Singapore at age 10. His multicultural background and global perspective have been instrumental in shaping his career in tech operations. He holds dual degrees in economics and mechanical engineering from Tufts University and a master’s in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Before joining Apple in 1995, Khan worked at GE Plastics, gaining experience in materials science and industrial engineering. His three-decade journey at Apple coincided with the company’s massive transformation under Steve Jobs and later Tim Cook.
Described by CEO Tim Cook as “a brilliant strategist,” Khan has overseen Apple’s global supply chain since 2019. His role includes managing planning, procurement, logistics, manufacturing, and product fulfillment. He has also led Apple’s sustainability efforts, reducing the tech giant’s carbon footprint by more than 60%.
Khan’s promotion comes as Apple repositions its manufacturing footprint in response to geopolitical pressures, especially the US-China trade climate. His leadership will be essential as Apple continues shifting operations to countries like India and Vietnam.
Industry experts, including Wall Street analyst Dan Ives, have praised Apple’s choice, highlighting Khan’s operational acumen and vision. His rise to COO also marks a milestone for Indian American leadership in Silicon Valley, showcasing Apple’s internal talent development and commitment to diversity.
This move is more than a simple leadership change. As the company faces new challenges in artificial intelligence, manufacturing innovation, and global logistics, Khan’s experience will be pivotal. His ability to anticipate operational hurdles and align Apple’s long-term goals with evolving market conditions will be a key asset.
This transition from Jeff Williams to Sabih Khan represents Apple’s forward-looking approach, blending continuity with adaptive strategy. With Khan at the helm of operations, Apple aims to reinforce its industry leadership amid complex global dynamics.
