Jeff Williams, who has served as Apple’s Chief Operating Officer since 2010, is set to retire later this year. His role will be taken over by Sabih Khan, currently the senior vice president of operations, prior to Williams’ full retirement.
Apple characterized this transition as a “long-planned succession” in a press release on Tuesday, marking the end of speculation regarding Williams’ potential ascension to CEO, a position currently held by Tim Cook.
Tim Cook expressed his appreciation for Williams’ contributions in the press release, 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’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. I am and will always be beyond grateful for his numerous contributions to Apple over the years and his loyal friendship. 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.”
Williams began his career at Apple in 1998 as the head of worldwide procurement, later taking on leadership of the company’s worldwide operations. He was instrumental in the launch of the iPhone and spearheaded the engineering development of the Apple Watch.
He will officially step down as COO in July, although he will continue to oversee the design team, the Apple Watch, and health initiatives until his full retirement later in the year, which is expected to take place once Apple finalizes other executive appointments.
In preparation for this transition, Sabih Khan, who has been with Apple since 1995, will advance from his current position. As senior vice president of operations, Khan has been responsible for Apple’s global supply chain.
Cook praised Khan’s strategic prowess, stating, “Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain. While overseeing Apple’s supply chain, he has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen the expansion of Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and helped ensure that Apple can be nimble in response to global challenges. He has advanced our ambitious efforts in environmental sustainability, helping reduce Apple’s carbon footprint by more than 60 percent. Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values, and I know he will make an exceptional Chief Operating Officer.”
