Apple has announced a transition in its leadership team, with Jeff Williams set to step down from his role as Chief Operating Officer later this month. Sabih Khan, currently Apple's Senior Vice President of Operations, will take over the position as part of a planned succession.
Williams will continue to report to Apple CEO Tim Cook and will oversee the company's design team and Apple Watch initiatives until his retirement later this year. After his departure, the design team will report directly to Cook.
Tim Cook praised Williams for his contributions to Apple, stating, "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 highlighted Williams' role in creating Apple's global supply chain, launching the Apple Watch, and developing Apple's health strategy.
Sabih Khan has been with Apple for 30 years and joined the executive team in 2019. Cook described Khan as "a brilliant strategist" who has played a key role in overseeing Apple's supply chain and advancing environmental sustainability efforts. "He has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing," said Cook.
Khan's responsibilities have included managing Apple's global supply chain functions such as planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment. He has also supported Apple's environmental initiatives by partnering with suppliers on green manufacturing practices.
Reflecting on his career at Apple, Williams expressed gratitude for his time at the company: “I have a deep love for Apple. Working with all of the amazing people at this company has been a privilege of a lifetime.” He plans to spend more time with family after retiring.
Before joining Apple in 1995, Khan worked at GE Plastics. He holds degrees from Tufts University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.