Change is underway at Boeing with a new leader appointed to its Defense, Space & Security division. The company has announced that Steve Parker will take on the role of President and Chief Executive Officer for this division. Parker, who has been with Boeing for 37 years, had already been serving as the interim leader of the unit for nearly a year.

Parker's appointment follows the departure of Ted Colbert in September 2024. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg described this as his first major management change. "Under Steve's leadership, our defense business has stabilized its operations, improved program execution, and strengthened relationships with our customers," Ortberg stated.

Parker joined Boeing in 1988 and has held various roles within the company. His career includes working as a Program Manager on projects involving aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III and F/A-18 Hornet. He later became Vice President & General Manager of Network & Space Systems and Chief Operating Officer of Boeing Defence Australia.

In addition to Parker's appointment, Boeing recently named Jesus 'Jay' Malave as its new Chief Financial Officer. Malave comes from Lockheed Martin where he also served as CFO. His role at Boeing will begin in mid-August.

Boeing continues to face scrutiny from USDOT and Congress regarding safety issues following incidents involving its aircraft models.