In early 2025, Boeing confronted a significant internal challenge: a notable decline in employee morale and trust in leadership. A comprehensive employee survey revealed that only 67% of respondents felt proud to work at Boeing, a sharp decrease from 91% in 2013. Furthermore, just 27% would highly recommend the company as a workplace, and only 42% expressed confidence in senior leadership’s decision-making and responsiveness to concerns. Leeham News and Analysis+4Airways | Home+4Flight Global+4
Leadership’s Response to Survey Findings
CEO Kelly Ortberg, who assumed leadership in August 2024, acknowledged the gravity of these findings. In an all-employee meeting on April 17, 2025, he emphasized the need for cultural transformation within Boeing. Ortberg stated, “Pride in Boeing has dropped significantly,” and highlighted the introduction of new company values aimed at revitalizing the organization’s culture.
These new values focus on enhancing transparency, accountability, and open communication across all levels of the company. Ortberg underscored the importance of every employee embracing these values to drive meaningful change. Flight Global
Employee Sentiments and Concerns
The survey illuminated several areas of concern among employees:KXL+2KING 5 News+2KXL+2
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Pride and Recommendation: Only 67% felt proud to work at Boeing, and a mere 27% would highly recommend it as a workplace.KXL+4Airways | Home+4Flight Global+4
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Leadership Confidence: Just 42% had confidence in senior leaders’ abilities to make decisions and address employee concerns.Flight Global+3Airways | Home+3KXL+3
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Accountability Issues: Employees expressed frustration over a perceived lack of accountability for poor performance within the organization.Airways | Home
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Communication Barriers: There were concerns about the difficulty of raising issues without fear of retaliation, indicating a need for a more open and supportive communication environment. Airways | Home
Despite these challenges, the survey also revealed a strong commitment among employees, with over 92% indicating plans to remain with the company for more than a year, reflecting a desire to be part of Boeing’s turnaround. Airways | Home+1Leeham News and Analysis+1
Structural Challenges and Cultural Shifts
Analysts have pointed out that Boeing’s cultural issues are deeply rooted, particularly within middle management. Reports suggest a persistent “deep state” of intimidation and retaliation against employees who voice concerns, hindering efforts to improve safety, quality, and overall culture. Leeham News and Analysis
Ortberg has acknowledged these systemic issues and emphasized the need for a profound cultural shift. He advocates for breaking down silos within the organization to foster better collaboration and communication across divisions. Ortberg believes that such changes are essential for boosting morale and achieving long-term success. Business InsiderReuters
External Pressures and the Path Forward
Boeing’s internal challenges have not gone unnoticed by external stakeholders. Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg highlighted the necessity for a significant cultural change within the company, emphasizing that such transformation is crucial for Boeing’s long-term results. Business Insider
In response to both internal and external pressures, Boeing is taking steps to address its cultural shortcomings. The company has initiated a series of employee meetings focused on culture change and has formed an enterprise working group to refresh its values and behaviors. These initiatives aim to create a more transparent, accountable, and inclusive work environment.
Conclusion
Boeing’s recent employee survey has shed light on significant morale and leadership trust issues within the company. Under CEO Kelly Ortberg’s leadership, Boeing is undertaking a cultural overhaul to address these challenges. By introducing new company values, promoting open communication, and holding leaders accountable, Boeing aims to rebuild employee trust and pride. While the path to cultural transformation is complex and requires time, these steps are essential for Boeing to restore its reputation and ensure long-term success.
