Boeing Appoints Robert K. “Kelly” Ortberg as New President and CEO

Boeing announced on July 31, 2024, that its Board of Directors has elected Robert K. “Kelly” Ortberg as the company’s new president and chief executive officer, effective August 8, 2024. Ortberg will also join Boeing’s Board of Directors.

Ortberg succeeds Dave Calhoun, who announced his intention to retire earlier this year after serving as president and CEO since January 2020 and as a Board member since 2009.

Steven Mollenkopf, Chair of the Board, stated, “The Board conducted a thorough and extensive search process to select the next CEO of Boeing. Kelly possesses the right skills and experience to lead Boeing into its next chapter. He is a highly respected leader in the aerospace industry with a proven track record in building strong teams and managing complex engineering and manufacturing operations. We are excited to have him guide Boeing through this pivotal period in its history.”

Mollenkopf also expressed gratitude to Dave Calhoun, saying, “The Board extends its thanks to Dave Calhoun for his exceptional leadership at Boeing, first as Chair and then as CEO. His guidance has been instrumental in navigating the company through recent challenges.”

Ortberg, 64, brings over 35 years of aerospace leadership to his new role. He began his career in 1983 as an engineer at Texas Instruments and joined Rockwell Collins in 1987 as a program manager. He progressed through various leadership roles, ultimately becoming president and CEO in 2013. After leading Rockwell Collins through its integration with United Technologies and RTX, Ortberg retired from RTX in 2021. His industry experience includes serving on the Board of Directors for RTX and Aptiv PLC, a global leader in vehicle systems architecture. He also served as Chair of the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) Board of Governors.

Ortberg holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Iowa and is eager to continue Boeing’s legacy with safety and quality as top priorities. “I’m extremely honored and humbled to join this iconic company,” Ortberg said. “Boeing’s rich history as a leader and pioneer in our industry is something I’m committed to upholding, working alongside the more than 170,000 dedicated employees. There is much work ahead, and I look forward to getting started.”

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, boeing.com