Sabih Khan, Apple COO has officially been announced as Apple’s new Chief Operating Officer, marking a historic moment for the tech giant and professionals of Indian origin. Born in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, in 1966, and raised partly in Singapore before moving to the U.S,Khan’s career spans nearly 30 years at Apple.
From Moradabad to Cupertino: Khan’s Journey
- Early Education & Career: Khan earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Economics from Tufts University, followed by a master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute . His first role was as an applications development engineer at GE Plastics.
- Joining Apple: In 1995, he started in Apple’s procurement division, eventually ascending through operations and global supply chain, and becoming Senior VP of Operations in 2019.
Why this Indian origin executive Matters
- Continuity & Stability: His promotion is a carefully planned succession strategy following Jeff Williams’s retirement, ensuring seamless leadership continuity.
- Supply Chain Leadership: As Sabih Khan Apple COO, he’s recognized as a “brilliant strategist” and a “central architect” of Apple’s global supply chain.
The 7 Powerful Moves Khan Will Lead
- Reinforcing Apple’s Global Supply Chain
Expect enhanced agility, diversified supplier bases, and reduced dependencies amid geopolitical stresses. - Scaling U.S. Manufacturing Footprint
Under his tenure, Apple expanded production stateside , a trend that will likely continue. - Driving Sustainability
Khan led efforts cutting Apple’s carbon footprint by over 60%, reinforcing eco-conscious manufacturing. - Navigating Trade Turbulence
Poised to manage tariff and international trade challenges, particularly amid U.S.–China tensions
- Flexible Response to Crisis
His leadership during COVID disruptions showcased his capacity to adapt quickly — an essential trait for future crisis . - Enhancing Supplier Ethics & Labor Practices
He has overseen worker safety, education programs, and labor improvement across Apple’s supply network. - Accelerating Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing
Pioneered automation, green tech, and manufacturing best practices.
Strategic Significance for Apple in India
As an Indian origin executive, Khan’s elevation sends a powerful message. It brings credibility to Apple’s growing investment in India, including plans to significantly shift iPhone production there by next year. His success paves the way for stronger ties between Silicon Valley and emerging markets.
What Lies Ahead
- Transition & Oversight: Khan will formally step into the COO role later this month, while Jeff Williams remains managing design and Apple Watch efforts until his official retirement.
- Future Challenges: He faces pressures such as slowing iPhone sales, global AI initiatives, and possible tariffs — all against a backdrop of dynamic market demands .
- Tim Cook’s Vote of Confidence: Tim Cook lauds Khan for leading “with heart and values” and for being a brilliant strategist.
Sabih Khan Apple COO is more than a title , it’s a symbol of resilience, sustainability, and operational excellence. This Indian origin executive begins his tenure with a strong mandate to fortify Apple’s global supply chain, champion green manufacturing, and drive growth in emerging markets.
Apple under Khan will likely build on its current momentum, prioritizing adaptability, ethical operations, and innovation. For Apple’s stakeholders, this means reliable product delivery, heightened environmental responsibility, and a future‑ready supply chain network.
