What makes a truly great leader? Attention to detail, a vision for the future, or maybe a strong personality? How about an education from Harvard or another top business school? Maybe the formula for superior leadership is much simpler; maybe the best way to spot a great leader is simply to look for someone who doesn't focus on profits.
Aerospace is an intensely nationalist business. But not only do aircraft makers get tied up in international political dogfights, such battle lines are drawn between states as well. Witness the just-completed competition between blue state Boeing and red state Airbus.
Given the latest production delay at Boeing, this time on the 747-8, the board should finally slide CEO Jim McNerney out the emergency exit. Ford CEO Alan Mulally looks like the perfect fit, especially because of his successful earlier career at Boeing.
