After nearly 15 years as Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, Jeff Williams is set to retire at the end of 2025. His departure will trigger one of the company’s largest leadership restructures in recent years. Sabih Khan, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Operations, will succeed Williams as COO.
Williams, who joined Apple in 1998 and became COO in 2010, has been a key figure behind major product launches, including the Apple Watch and several health-related initiatives. As he steps back, Apple is redistributing his extensive portfolio across several top executives.
Health and Fitness Transition to Eddy Cue
According to a report from Bloomberg, Apple’s Health and Fitness divisions will now report to Eddy Cue, the company’s Senior Vice President of Services. The restructuring aligns with Apple’s strategy to integrate wellness features into its growing services ecosystem.
Insiders suggest the change supports the rumored launch of Health+, an AI-driven coaching platform expected to debut in 2026. The service could expand Apple’s footprint in personalized digital health, blending hardware, software, and subscription-based offerings.
Sumbul Desai, Apple’s Vice President of Health, will oversee both the health and fitness teams, with Jay Blahnik—head of Fitness Technologies—reporting directly to her. Blahnik previously faced allegations of workplace misconduct, though Apple denied any wrongdoing.
Federighi and Ternus Take Over Hardware and Software
Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, will assume responsibility for watchOS, while John Ternus will lead all Apple Watch hardware efforts. The move reflects Apple’s commitment to aligning its software and hardware roadmaps more tightly.
Additionally, Molly Anderson and Alan Dye will now oversee hardware and software design, both reporting directly to CEO Tim Cook.
A Broader Leadership Transition
Williams’ retirement may mark the start of a broader leadership turnover at Apple. Reports suggest Lisa Jackson, Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, is also considering stepping down as she nears 64.
With several long-serving executives approaching retirement, Apple is expected to unveil multiple succession plans before the end of the decade. As the company continues evolving under Tim Cook, the next generation of leaders will shape Apple’s future across innovation, health, and sustainability
