Indian-Origin Sabih Khan Named Apple’s Chief Operating Officer
Apple Inc. has appointed Sabih Khan, a 30-year company veteran, as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), making him one of the highest-ranking executives of Indian descent in the tech giant’s history. Khan, who played a pivotal role in reshaping Apple’s supply chain and sustainability efforts, will succeed Jeff Williams later this month.
Who Is Sabih Khan?
Early Life & Education
- Born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Moved to Singapore at age 10.
- Earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics & Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University.
- Completed a master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Career Before Apple
- Worked at GE Plastics (now SABIC) as an application development and technical leader.
- Joined Apple in 1995, beginning a three-decade-long journey in operations and supply chain management.
Sabih Khan’s Impact at Apple
Revolutionizing Apple’s Supply Chain
- Spearheaded global supply chain innovations, ensuring efficiency amid challenges like chip shortages and geopolitical disruptions.
- Led supplier responsibility initiatives, improving labor conditions at manufacturing sites worldwide.
Driving Sustainability & U.S. Manufacturing Expansion
- Reduced Apple’s carbon footprint by over 60% through green manufacturing partnerships.
- Pioneered new technologies to enhance production efficiency.
- Expanded U.S.-based manufacturing, reducing reliance on overseas suppliers.
Tim Cook’s Praise for Sabih Khan
Apple CEO Tim Cook called Khan a “brilliant strategist” and “central architect of Apple’s supply chain.”
“Sabih leads with heart and values, and I know he will make an exceptional COO. He helped ensure Apple can be nimble in response to global challenges.”
What’s Next for Apple Under Khan’s Leadership?
As COO, Khan will oversee:
1. Global supply chain & operations
2. Product manufacturing & fulfillment
3. Supplier sustainability programs
4. Quality control & cost efficiency
Jeff Williams, the outgoing COO, will remain until retirement, focusing on Apple Watch and design teams.
Why This Appointment Matters
- First Indian-origin COO in Apple’s history.
- Reinforces diversity in top-tier tech leadership.
- Signals Apple’s commitment to sustainability and supply chain resilience.