In a significant leadership move, Apple has announced that Sabih Khan, its Senior Vice President of Operations, will be elevated to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) later this month. The Indian-origin executive will succeed longtime Apple veteran Jeff Williams, who plans to retire after nearly three decades of service.

According to Apple’s official announcement, Williams will continue to report to CEO Tim Cook in the interim and will oversee the company’s design team, Apple Watch, and health initiatives until his retirement. Post his exit, Apple’s design team will report directly to Cook.

“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,” said Tim Cook in the company’s press statement. “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.”

Cook further added, “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.”

During his career at Apple, Williams helped shape the global supply chain that supported the company’s expansion across major markets including the U.S., China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia. He played pivotal roles in the development of both the iPod and iPhone and was instrumental in driving Apple’s growth strategies.

On Khan’s promotion, Cook remarked, “Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain. He has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen Apple’s expansion in the U.S., and guided the company through global challenges with agility.”

Cook also emphasized Khan’s contributions toward sustainability, noting that he played a key role in reducing Apple’s carbon footprint by over 60 percent. “Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and values, and I know he will make an exceptional Chief Operating Officer,” he said.

Sabih Khan, who has spent three decades at Apple, joined the executive team as SVP of Operations in 2019. Over the past six years, he has been responsible for Apple’s global supply chain — from planning and procurement to manufacturing, logistics, and supplier responsibility programs.

In a farewell note, Jeff Williams shared, “June marked my 27th anniversary with Apple, and my 40th in the industry. Beginning next year, I plan to spend more time with friends and family, including five grandchildren and counting.” Reflecting on his professional bond with Khan, he added, “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Sabih for 27 years and I think he’s the most talented operations executive on the planet.”

Khan’s appointment marks a new chapter in Apple’s leadership evolution as the company continues to navigate its future with a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and global reach.