Boeing has stripped CEO Dennis Muilenberg of his role as chairman of the organisation in a move which it says will enable Muilenberg to focus on the running of the company.
In his place, the board elected David Calhoun, current independent lead director, to serve as non-executive chairman.
"Splitting the chairman and CEO roles will enable Muilenburg to focus full time on running the company as it works to return the 737 MAX safely to service," a Boeing media release said. "This decision is the latest of several actions by the board of directors and Boeing senior leadership to strengthen the company's governance and safety management processes."
Commenting on his new role, Calhoun said he has full confidence in Muilenburg adding that the board believes the division of labour will enable him to have maximum focus on running the business.
He said: "The board also plans in the near term to name a new director with deep safety experience and expertise to serve on the board and its newly established Aerospace Safety Committee."