In News: Indian-Origin Executive Appointed as Chief Operating Officer at Apple
Analysis
- Apple has appointed Sabih Khan, an Indian-origin executive, as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), placing him among the top leadership of one of the world’s most influential technology companies.
- The appointment was announced by Apple CEO Tim Cook, who described Khan as a brilliant strategist and a central architect of Apple’s global supply chain.
- Sabih Khan has played a key role in strengthening Apple’s operations and advancing its sustainability agenda, contributing to a reduction of Apple’s carbon footprint by over 60 percent.
- His elevation comes at a crucial time when Apple is preparing for the launch of the iPhone 17 and amid reports of diversification of Apple’s supply chain away from China.
- Khan’s appointment adds him to the list of prominent Indian-origin global corporate leaders, alongside figures such as Sundar Pichai (Google), Satya Nadella (Microsoft), and Indra Nooyi (PepsiCo).
- The development has generated significant public attention in Uttar Pradesh, particularly Moradabad, highlighting the growing global footprint of Indian-origin professionals in technology leadership.
Necessary Static Part
- Birth and Early Life
- Born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh.
- Spent early childhood in the Civil Lines area of Moradabad before moving abroad.
- Later relocated to Singapore, where he completed his schooling.
- Educational Background
- Dual Bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Economics from Tufts University, USA.
- Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).
- Professional Career
- Worked at GE Plastics, Cupertino, as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader before joining Apple.
- Joined Apple in 1995 and rose through the ranks over nearly three decades.
- Most recently served as Senior Vice President of Operations, overseeing Apple’s complex global supply chain.
- Significance
- Represents India’s growing contribution to global corporate leadership.
- Highlights the importance of supply chain management, sustainability, and operational efficiency in modern multinational corporations.
- Relevant for UPSC under themes of Indian diaspora, globalization, technology governance, and economic diplomacy.
Updated – 26 October 2025 | News Source: NorthEast Live TV