Boeing Announces CEO Dave Calhoun’s Departure and Management Shake-up
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun is set to step down at the end of 2024 as part of a significant management restructuring within the company. This move comes in the wake of a safety crisis following a series of incidents, including a mid-air panel blowout on a 737 MAX plane operated by Alaska Airlines in January.
Key Changes in Boeing’s Management
- Chairman of the board Larry Kellner is resigning and will depart after the company’s annual meeting in May.
- Steve Mollenkopf, former Qualcomm CEO, will succeed Kellner as independent board chair and lead the process of selecting Boeing’s next CEO.
- Stan Deal, Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) President and CEO, will retire and be replaced by Stephanie Pope, effective immediately.
Despite these changes, Calhoun will remain at the helm of the company until the end of the year.
Boeing’s Response to Recent Incidents
Following the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun acknowledged the gravity of the situation and emphasized the need for transparency and a renewed focus on safety and quality within the company. He described the incident as a “watershed moment” and stressed the importance of rebuilding trust with stakeholders.
Boeing has been under intense scrutiny by regulators and the public since the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, which claimed the lives of nearly 350 people. The company has pledged to address its quality struggles and prioritize safety in all aspects of its operations.
Calhoun’s leadership has been pivotal in navigating Boeing through these challenges, with a commitment to restoring stability and instilling a culture of safety and quality across the organization.
With these changes in leadership and a renewed focus on safety, Boeing aims to regain the trust of the public and stakeholders as it works towards a more secure and sustainable future.
