Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg Urges Employees to End Infighting and Focus on Tasks

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg has issued a stern warning to his employees, urging them to stop internal squabbling and focus on their work. During a recent hourlong town hall meeting, Ortberg emphasized the need for unity and productivity within the company. He stated, “We spend more time arguing amongst ourselves than thinking about how we’re going to beat Airbus,” highlighting the competitive pressure from Boeing’s main rival.

Ortberg, who took over as CEO in August, has been dealing with numerous challenges, including a massive seven-week worker strike and significant financial losses. The company has seen its stock price drop by about 40% since the start of the year. In his address, Ortberg also cautioned employees against spending time complaining about colleagues, saying, “Let’s focus on the task at hand,” and advised them not to “sit at the water cooler and bitch about people”.

The CEO’s remarks come at a time when Boeing is undergoing significant restructuring, including layoffs. In October, the company announced plans to cut 10% of its global workforce, affecting over 2,200 employees in Washington and Oregon. This includes more than 400 workers from the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) union.

Despite the challenges, there are some positive developments. Boeing has resumed production of its 737 Max airplanes and secured its first order since the strike, with Avia Solutions Group ordering 80 Boeing 737 Max planes on November 12. Ortberg has vowed to make Boeing “iconic” again, as stated in the company’s third-quarterly statement.

Additionally, Ortberg has been in discussions with President-elect Donald Trump regarding the potential impact of proposed tariffs on Boeing’s operations. Trump’s proposed tariffs, including a 60% tariff on goods from China, could affect Boeing’s sales to Chinese airlines.