Apple Inc. has announced a significant change in its executive leadership, with Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams set to hand over his role to Sabih Khan later this month. This transition, revealed on July 8, 2025, marks the culmination of a long-planned succession strategy at the world’s most valuable technology company.
Jeff Williams: A Legacy of Operational Excellence
Jeff Williams, who joined Apple in 1998, has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s global supply chain and operational prowess. Over his 27-year tenure, Williams was instrumental in launching the Apple Watch, leading Apple’s health strategy, and overseeing the company’s acclaimed design team.
Reflecting on Williams’ contributions, CEO Tim Cook stated, “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. He’s helped to create one of the most respected global supply chains in the world; launched Apple Watch and overseen its development; architected Apple’s health strategy; and led our world-class team of designers with great wisdom, heart, and dedication. I am and will always be beyond grateful for his numerous contributions to Apple over the years and his loyal friendship.
Jeff’s true legacy can be seen in the amazing team he’s created and, while he’ll be greatly missed, he leaves the work of the future in incredible hands”.
Williams will continue to report to Tim Cook and oversee Apple’s design team, Apple Watch, and health initiatives until his retirement later this year. After his departure, the design team will report directly to Cook.
Sabih Khan: The New Face of Apple Operations
Sabih Khan, currently Apple’s Senior Vice President of Operations, will step into the COO role. Khan, who joined Apple in 1995, has been a central architect of the company’s supply chain and has led Apple’s global operations since 2019. His leadership has been crucial in pioneering advanced manufacturing technologies, expanding Apple’s manufacturing footprint, and driving sustainability initiatives that have reduced Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60 percent.
Tim Cook praised Khan’s appointment: “Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain. While overseeing Apple’s supply chain, he has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen the expansion of Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and helped ensure that Apple can be nimble in response to global challenges.
He has advanced our ambitious efforts in environmental sustainability, helping reduce Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60 percent. Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values, and I know he will make an exceptional chief operating officer”.
A Smooth Transition for Apple’s Future
This leadership change is part of Apple’s strategy to ensure continuity and maintain its focus on innovation and operational excellence. Williams’ retirement and Khan’s elevation to COO highlight the company’s commitment to nurturing talent from within and adapting to the evolving global landscape.
As Apple enters this new chapter, the company’s operational legacy is set to continue under Khan’s stewardship, with a strong emphasis on efficiency, sustainability, and global impact.
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