Sabih Khan: From Supply Chain Architect to Apple’s Chief Operating Officer
Sabih Khan, born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, has ascended to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Apple Inc., marking a significant milestone in his nearly three-decade-long tenure with the tech giant. His journey from a young boy in India to a top executive at one of the world’s most influential companies is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and leadership.
Early Life and Education
Khan’s formative years were spent in Moradabad until his family relocated to Singapore when he was ten years old. This international move exposed him to diverse cultures and educational systems, shaping his global perspective. He pursued higher education in the United States, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University. Furthering his technical acumen, Khan obtained a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). ([indianexpress.com](https://indianexpress.com/article/education/sabih-khan-apple-coo-educational-qualification-tufts-university-rensselaer-polytechnic-institute-10117265/?utm_source=openai))
Professional Beginnings
Before joining Apple, Khan honed his skills at GE Plastics (now SABIC), where he served as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader. In these roles, he was responsible for developing new applications for plastic materials and managing relationships with key clients, providing him with a solid foundation in engineering and client relations. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabih_Khan?utm_source=openai))
Joining Apple and Rising Through the Ranks
In 1995, Khan embarked on his journey with Apple, starting in the procurement team. His early contributions were pivotal during a transformative period for the company, especially during the return of Steve Jobs in 1997. Khan’s expertise in supply chain management became increasingly valuable as Apple expanded its product lines and global reach.
Over the years, Khan played a crucial role in delivering Apple’s innovative products to market. His responsibilities encompassed planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment functions. He also oversaw Apple’s supplier responsibility programs, ensuring ethical practices and worker education at production facilities worldwide. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/jp/leadership/sabih-khan/?utm_source=openai))
Leadership in Operations
In June 2019, Khan was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations, reporting directly to then-COO Jeff Williams. In this capacity, he led Apple’s global supply chain, ensuring product quality and overseeing various operational functions. His leadership was instrumental in establishing partnerships with green manufacturing suppliers and implementing changes to suppliers’ operations in response to global challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabih_Khan?utm_source=openai))
Appointment as Chief Operating Officer
In July 2025, Apple announced that Khan would succeed Jeff Williams as the Chief Operating Officer. CEO Tim Cook praised Khan as a brilliant strategist and a central architect of Apple’s supply chain. Cook highlighted Khan’s contributions to pioneering new technologies in advanced manufacturing, expanding Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and advancing the company’s environmental sustainability efforts, which led to a reduction of Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60%. ([indianexpress.com](https://indianexpress.com/article/business/companies/apple-india-born-sabih-khan-new-coo-10115448/lite/?utm_source=openai))
Vision and Future Prospects
As COO, Khan oversees Apple’s worldwide operations, environmental and social initiatives, as well as AppleCare customer service and support. His leadership is expected to drive Apple’s operational excellence and innovation. Given his extensive experience and strategic vision, Khan is also considered a potential candidate for the role of CEO in the future. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/jp/leadership/sabih-khan/?utm_source=openai))
Conclusion
Sabih Khan’s journey from Moradabad to the upper echelons of Apple Inc. exemplifies a blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and leadership acumen. His contributions have been integral to Apple’s success, and his role as COO positions him as a key figure in shaping the company’s future.
