Boeing has announced the appointment of Robert “Kelly” Ortberg as its new CEO, a seasoned aerospace veteran. Ortberg, 64, retired from RTX in 2021 and brings extensive engineering experience to Boeing, having previously led the integration of Rockwell Collins into United Technologies, which later merged with Raytheon.
Ortberg’s appointment, effective August 8, comes as Boeing grapples with significant operational issues, highlighted by a second-quarter loss of $1.4 billion. The company faces scrutiny over safety and quality control problems, compounded by losses on defense contracts due to supply chain disruptions and technical challenges.
Outgoing CEO Dave Calhoun, who assumed the role in January 2020, announced his departure following recent incidents, including an emergency landing of a 737 MAX aircraft in January. Boeing Chairman Steve Mollenkopf praised Ortberg as a respected leader within the aerospace industry.
In response to his appointment, Ortberg expressed humility and eagerness to address Boeing’s challenges, stating, “I am extremely honored to join this iconic company. There is much work ahead, and I look forward to beginning this journey.”
