Apple has entered a new chapter as longtime Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams officially retired on Friday. His final day at Apple Park closed a remarkable career that helped shape the company’s product strategy, health initiatives, and global supply chain.
Williams stepped down from his COO role earlier in July, handing responsibilities to Sabih Khan. He continued reporting directly to CEO Tim Cook during the transition while guiding Apple’s design teams. Cook called Williams “one of the main forces behind Apple’s most respected global supply chains” and credited him for helping launch and grow the Apple Watch.
A Legacy Built Over Decades
Williams joined Apple in 1998 as head of Worldwide Procurement and rose through the ranks as the company expanded globally. Over the years, he led operations, fitness, health technology, and design—three areas that became central to Apple’s identity.
His focus on health and wellness helped Apple transform the Apple Watch into a key device for personal fitness and medical monitoring. Although Apple later shifted these initiatives into its Services division, Williams’ influence remains visible across product lines.
Cook praised Williams’ “wisdom, heart, and dedication,” noting that his leadership helped build a new generation of talent. According to Cook, Williams leaves behind a strong team prepared to carry Apple’s vision into the future.
Sabih Khan Steps Forward
Sabih Khan, who has overseen Apple’s operations since 2019, now moves fully into the role Williams held for more than a decade. At 59, Khan is close in age to Cook and is viewed as a key internal leader as Apple considers future executive succession.
The company has not announced a formal CEO succession plan. Cook previously hinted that he expected to step down sometime within ten years, giving Apple time to establish its next generation of leadership. Analysts point to three likely candidates: Craig Federighi, John Ternus, and Greg Joswiak.
A Milestone Moment for Apple
Williams’ retirement marks one of Apple’s most significant leadership transitions since Jony Ive’s departure. As Apple continues to expand into AI, health, and emerging devices, the company now leans on the leaders Williams helped develop—ensuring his impact will remain long after his final day.
