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Apple is one of the world's most well-known technology companies. For many, Apple stands for innovation, design, and product quality. What often remains in the background are the people who make it all possible. One of them is Jeff Williams, who has helped shape Apple's operational business for nearly three decades. Now Apple has officially announced a change in leadership. Sabih Khan will be the new Chief Operating Officer (COO).
In July 2025, Apple announced a significant change in its leadership structure. Jeff Williams, the current Chief Operating Officer, was handing over his responsibilities to Sabih Khan. This transition was part of a planned succession plan. Williams will remain with the company until the end of the year, but will then retire after 27 years with Apple. His successor, Sabih Khan, is also a company veteran and brings extensive experience in leading Apple's global supply chain.
Jeff Williams resigns from COO position
Jeff Williams joined Apple in 1998. Since then, he has been involved in numerous key projects, including the launch of the iPod and iPhone programs and the development of the Apple Watch. His role in the company's healthcare strategy was particularly influential. Today, the Apple Watch is not just a smartwatch, but also a health tool with features such as ECG, fall detection, and cycle tracking. Williams was also responsible for global supply chain management and led Apple's design team for the past few years. He played a key role in ensuring that Apple now has one of the most efficient and respected supply chains in the world.
A legacy of sustainability and commitment
This wasn't just about logistics—Williams was also heavily involved in supplier responsibility issues. Under his leadership, programs were developed to improve working conditions and provide training for employees in production facilities. In recent years, Williams has also led environmental initiatives with the goal of significantly reducing Apple's carbon footprint. According to Apple, it has now been reduced by over 60 percent. In June 2025, Williams celebrated his 27th anniversary at Apple and announced that he would be focusing more on his family starting next year. He has five grandchildren and plans to spend more time with them.
Sabih Khan takes over as new COO
Sabih Khan has been with Apple since 1995, initially working in the procurement department. Since 2019, he has been part of the leadership team as Senior Vice President of Operations. In this role, he was responsible for the entire supply chain – from planning and procurement to manufacturing and logistics and product fulfillment. In recent years, Khan has not only ensured stable supply chains but also introduced new technologies in manufacturing. Under his leadership, production in the United States was expanded, among other things. He has also been active in the area of sustainability.
Focus on responsibility for people and the environment
He ensured that Apple better achieved its environmental goals and made its collaboration with suppliers more environmentally friendly. Another focus of his work was on responsibility towards employees in production. Khan was responsible for programs aimed at improving standards in working conditions, training, and occupational safety worldwide. Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, describes Khan as a brilliant strategist with strong values who exercises his leadership role with heart. Cook emphasizes that Apple is in very good hands under his operational leadership.
Structural changes at Apple
Until the end of the year, Jeff Williams will continue to report directly to Tim Cook and oversee the design team, Apple Watch, and health initiatives. After his full departure, Apple's design team will report directly to CEO Tim Cook. This restructuring is intended to streamline decision-making processes and increase efficiency.
Apple stays on course
The change in operational leadership marks the end of an era and, at the same time, a strategic new beginning. Jeff Williams has played a decisive role in shaping Apple over the past decades – with a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and a human leadership style. Sabih Khan brings similar qualities and knows the company just as well. Apple's strategic direction remains stable. Sustainability, product quality, and global responsibility will continue to be a focus. At the same time, Khan is expected to provide new impetus, particularly in the further development of the supply chain and production.
Apple stays on course – with new chief operating officer
With the transition from Jeff Williams to Sabih Khan, Apple is making a significant internal change – one that combines vision and continuity. Both executives have played a key role in shaping Apple, and the transition is the result of years of planning. For the company, this means not a break, but a continuation of proven principles with a fresh leadership style. Apple will remain what we know in the future – reliable, innovative, and strategically clear. (Image: Apple)
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