Apple's COO Sabih Khan Leads Operations Through Challenges

Veteran executive has helped Apple navigate supply chain issues and global expansion

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Sabih Khan, Apple's Chief Operating Officer, has played a crucial role in the company's operations for over 25 years. Starting in procurement in 1995, Khan has steadily risen through the ranks, overseeing Apple's global supply chain and helping the company navigate major challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and U.S.-China trade tensions. As COO, Khan now reports directly to CEO Tim Cook and is considered a potential successor, though experts believe other executives may be better positioned for the top job long-term.

Why it matters

Khan's leadership of Apple's operations has been instrumental in the company's ability to rapidly scale production and respond to global disruptions. His work in diversifying Apple's manufacturing footprint and ensuring worker safety and environmental responsibility has helped maintain the company's reputation and supply of its popular products.

The details

Khan joined Apple in 1995 after earning degrees in economics, mechanical engineering, and a master's in mechanical engineering. He started in procurement, helping secure components and materials for products like the iMac. Over the next two decades, he rose to lead Apple's operations team, expanding the supply chain and implementing rigorous supplier audits. In 2019, he was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations, and in 2025 he became Chief Operating Officer, reporting directly to CEO Tim Cook. As COO, Khan has overseen Apple's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, factory unrest in China, and the U.S.-China trade war, helping the company shift production to other regions like India.

  • Khan joined Apple's procurement team in 1995.
  • He was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019.
  • Khan became Apple's Chief Operating Officer in July 2025, succeeding Jeff Williams.
  • Williams officially retired from Apple in November 2025 after 15 years as COO.

The players

Sabih Khan

Apple's Chief Operating Officer, who has worked at the company for over 25 years and overseen its global operations and supply chain.

Tim Cook

Apple's CEO, to whom Khan now reports directly as COO.

Jeff Williams

Apple's former Chief Operating Officer, who retired in 2025 after 15 years in the role.

Craig Federighi

Apple's Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, who now manages some teams previously under the COO's purview.

John Ternus

An Apple executive considered a potential long-term successor to Tim Cook as CEO.

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What they’re saying

“He is a world-class leader and collaborator, and I have no doubt that he will be the best leader of the Ops team in Apple's history.”

— Jeff Williams, Former Apple Chief Operating Officer (Apple press release)

“Sabih has led our operations team with heart, managing a global team that treats workers with dignity and respect while also helping to protect the environment.”

— Tim Cook, Apple CEO (Apple press release)

What’s next

Khan will continue to oversee Apple's global operations and supply chain as COO, working closely with CEO Tim Cook to navigate any future challenges or disruptions.

The takeaway

Sabih Khan's steady rise through Apple's ranks over the past 25 years has made him a key figure in the company's ability to rapidly scale production and respond to global crises. While he may not be the long-term successor to Tim Cook as CEO, Khan's leadership of Apple's operations has been instrumental in the company's continued success.