Apple COO Jeff Williams is Retiring

Once considered a top contender to succeed Tim Cook as CEO, Apple CEO Jeff Williams is instead retiring from the company this month.

“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,” Mr. Cook said. “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.”

The hands he’s referring to belong to senior vice president of operations Sabih Khan, a 30-year Apple veteran who will transition into the COO role “as part of a long-planned succession” when Williams leaves later this month.

“Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain,” Cook added. “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.”

Apple’s design team will continue reporting to Williams until he leaves as well, at which point it will report directly to Tim Cook.

“I have a deep love for Apple,” Williams said. “Working with all of the amazing people at this company has been a privilege of a lifetime, and I can’t thank Tim enough for the opportunity, his inspirational leadership, and our friendship over the years. June marked my 27th anniversary with Apple, and my 40th in the industry. Beginning next year, I plan to spend more time with friends and family, including five grandchildren and counting. I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Sabih for 27 years, and I think he’s the most talented operations executive on the planet. I have tremendous confidence in Apple’s future under his leadership in this role.”