Leadership shuffle at Apple: Who's taking over as COO?

Gulf Business

10-07-2025

Image credit: X image
Apple Inc. announced on July 8, 2025 that Sabih Khan, a 30-year veteran of the company and currently Senior Vice President of Operations, will become its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) later this month. He will succeed Jeff Williams, who plans to retire at the end of the year following a nearly three-decade tenure at the iPhone maker.
Read-
The move is part of a long-planned succession strategy, Apple said in a statement.
Williams, who has served as COO since 2015, will remain at the company through the end of 2025. During this transition period, he will continue reporting to CEO Tim Cook, overseeing the company's acclaimed design team, Apple Watch, and health initiatives. Upon his retirement, Apple's design team will report directly to Cook.
Veteran leadership shift
Khan joined Apple's procurement group in 1995 and has steadily risen through the ranks. Since 2019, he has been a member of Apple's executive team, managing the company's global supply chain — one of the most sophisticated in the world.
Before joining Apple, Khan worked as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader at GE Plastics. 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,
'Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple's supply chain,' said CEO Tim Cook in a statement. 'He's helped pioneer advanced manufacturing technologies, expand our footprint in the US, and ensure Apple can respond nimbly to global challenges.'
Cook also praised Khan's leadership in environmental initiatives, crediting him with helping Apple reduce its carbon footprint by more than 60 percent. 'Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values,' Cook added. 'I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer.'
Tribute to Jeff Williams
Cook also took time to commend Williams for his decades of contributions to Apple. Williams joined the company in 1998 and played key roles in several landmark projects, including the launch of the iPod, iPhone, and Apple Watch. He has also led Apple's push into health technologies and overseen its design team in recent years.
'Jeff and I have worked alongside each other for as long as I can remember, and Apple wouldn't be what it is without him,' Cook said. 'He's helped to create one of the most respected global supply chains in the world and has led our world-class team of designers with great wisdom, heart, and dedication.'
Williams expressed gratitude for his time at the company and confidence in Khan's leadership.
'I have a deep love for Apple,' Williams said in a prepared statement. 'Working with the amazing people at this company has been a privilege of a lifetime. June marked my 27th anniversary with Apple, and my 40th in the industry. Beginning next year, I plan to spend more time with friends and family — including five grandchildren and counting.'
He added, 'I've had the pleasure of working closely with Sabih for 27 years, and I think he's the most talented operations executive on the planet. I have tremendous confidence in Apple's future under his leadership.'
Focus on sustainability and global reach
Under Khan's leadership, Apple's operations team has been instrumental in scaling its global supply chain while maintaining product quality and sustainability commitments. His responsibilities have included planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment, as well as oversight of supplier responsibility programs that protect and educate workers in production facilities worldwide.
Khan has also advanced Apple's environmental goals by working with suppliers to improve green manufacturing practices and reduce the company's environmental impact.
Looking ahead
The appointment of Khan comes as Apple faces a rapidly evolving global supply chain environment, growing competition in hardware and services, and increased scrutiny over labor and sustainability practices. The company's decision to tap an experienced internal leader with deep operational knowledge underscores its commitment to continuity and long-term strategy.
Khan's rise to the COO role reinforces Apple's tradition of promoting from within and relying on seasoned executives with a proven track record.
As Apple navigates the post-pandemic economy, shifts in global trade, and increased pressure on climate commitments, Khan's leadership in operations will be central to Apple's ability to deliver innovation at scale.
(With inputs from Reuters)