In a significant leadership move, Apple Inc. has appointed Indian-origin executive Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Khan, who has been with the tech giant for nearly three decades, will succeed Jeff Williams, who is set to retire later this month. The announcement marks a major milestone not only for Apple but also for the growing presence of Indian-origin professionals in global tech leadership roles.
Sabih Khan was born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, and moved to Singapore at the age of 10. He later relocated to the United States for higher education, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University, followed by a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). Before joining Apple, Khan worked at GE Plastics (now SABIC), where he gained valuable experience in engineering and client management.
Khan joined Apple in 1995 during a challenging period in the company’s history. Over the years, he played a pivotal role in building and managing Apple’s global supply chain, overseeing procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment. In 2019, he was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations, reporting directly to Jeff Williams. His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring Apple’s operational efficiency and resilience, especially during global disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond operations, Khan has also led Apple’s supplier responsibility programs, focusing on labor rights, education, and environmental sustainability. Under his guidance, Apple significantly reduced its carbon footprint and strengthened its partnerships with green manufacturing suppliers. His efforts have been widely recognized for aligning Apple’s business goals with broader social and environmental responsibilities.
Apple CEO Tim Cook praised Khan as “a brilliant strategist and one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain,” adding that “Sabih leads with heart and values.” As COO, Khan will now be at the forefront of Apple’s efforts to navigate global supply chain shifts, expand manufacturing in India, and integrate emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. His appointment signals Apple’s continued commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive leadership.