In the midst of the ongoing restructuring process, Boeing is relying on new financial strategic expertise: Starting in August, Jesus "Jay" Malave will take over as Chief Financial Officer. The previous CFO, Brian West, who has been responsible for the department for four years, will transition to an advisory role for CEO Kelly Ortberg. This personnel change marks the most prominent shift in the leadership team since Ortberg's assumption of office last year.

Malave comes from the defense company Lockheed Martin, where he served as CFO until recently. His appointment comes at a time when Boeing must regain its financial and industrial stability. CEO Ortberg described the change as a central step to "open the next chapter of Boeing." The aim is to profoundly reform the safety culture and quality processes.

West, who was appointed by Ortberg's predecessor Dave Calhoun, was responsible for last year's $24 billion equity raise—a bid to stabilize the aircraft manufacturer's troubled balance sheet. Under his leadership, he guided Boeing through turbulence following the 737 Max crisis and several quality issues.

The pressure on Ortberg and his team has recently increased further. After the crash of a Boeing 787-8 of Air India with 242 occupants in early June – with only one survivor – the company is once again in the global spotlight. The exact cause of the accident remains unclear.

Ortberg, previously in leadership positions at United Technologies and Raytheon, has been striving for months to normalize production. In particular, after the spectacular door panel incident in January 2024, Boeing announced comprehensive changes in quality management.

Malave's experience in the defense sector and his reputation as a structurally minded financial strategist are expected to help regain trust among investors and customers. Investors initially reacted cautiously in the financial markets – the Boeing stock remained unchanged after hours.