Sabih Khan: The Quiet Architect Steering Apple’s Global Operations
[Date: July 9, 2025]
In a significant leadership transition at one of the world’s most influential companies, Sabih Khan, a veteran executive with nearly three decades at Apple, has been named the tech giant’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO). This move, part of a long-planned succession, positions Khan as a pivotal figure in shaping Apple’s future, overseeing its vast global supply chain and operational strategies.
Rising to the Helm at Apple
Sabih Khan’s appointment as COO, succeeding the retiring Jeff Williams, is a testament to his profound impact on Apple’s operational excellence. Having joined Apple’s procurement group in 1995, Khan has steadily risen through the ranks, becoming Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019. In this role, he has been instrumental in meticulously managing Apple’s global supply chain, ensuring product quality, and overseeing planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment functions.
Apple CEO Tim Cook lauded Khan as “a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain.” Cook highlighted Khan’s leadership in pioneering new technologies in advanced manufacturing, expanding Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and ensuring the company’s agility in response to global challenges. Furthermore, Khan has been a key driver in Apple’s ambitious environmental sustainability efforts, contributing to a remarkable reduction of over 60 percent in the company’s carbon footprint.
A Legacy of Quiet Leadership and Strategic Vision
Born in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, and later relocating to Singapore and then the United States, Khan’s journey reflects a blend of diverse experiences and a strong academic foundation. 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. This unique combination of technical expertise and economic understanding has been crucial in his ability to navigate the complexities of global operations.
While Sabih Khan has largely remained out of the public spotlight, his influence within Apple is undeniable. He is known for his quiet leadership style, sharp attention to detail, and deep technical knowledge. As COO, he will continue to oversee Apple’s critical operational divisions, including manufacturing, logistics, sustainability, and supplier responsibility programs, ensuring that Apple products consistently meet the company’s high standards and customer expectations worldwide.
As Apple continues to innovate and expand its global presence amidst evolving market dynamics and supply chain complexities, Sabih Khan’s strategic acumen and decades of experience will be vital in steering the company’s operational success into its next chapter.
