Editor’s note: The headline of this story has been corrected to fix a spelling error.
In a strategic shift, Boeing Co. (NYSE:BA) reportedly parted ways with the lobbying firm that played a pivotal role during one of the company’s most challenging periods.
What Happened: Boeing ended its contract with Cornerstone Government Affairs, the lobbying firm that assisted the aerospace giant during the 737 Max disaster, in February, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday.
The decision to cut ties in February was made by Ziad "Z" Ojakli, Boeing’s chief lobbyist, after learning that Cornerstone had taken on Sierra Space Corp., a client now represented by Ojakli’s predecessor, Tim Keating. This move comes amid Boeing’s efforts to revamp its leadership and lobbying strategies following the fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019.
The leadership overhaul at Boeing began with CEO Dave Calhoun’s decision to replace Keating with Ojakli, a former lobbyist for Ford Motor Co., in 2021. The transition has reportedly been challenging, with new hires still adjusting to the aerospace sector and struggling to establish connections with key lawmakers.
At the time of publishing, ...