Following the rocky term of CEO Dave Calhoun, Boeing's board has started looking for a big-hitter to assume the head of the ailing planemaker. Many industry leaders and experts have predicted that the board will go outside the company for a solution. Following the resignations of the company's chairman and chief commercial planemaker, Calhoun, 66, will leave by year's end as part of a wider than anticipated reorganization announced by Boeing on Monday in response to growing pressure from airlines, regulators, and investors.

The American aircraft manufacturer has been battling an intensifying crisis since a 737 MAX airliner experienced a mid-air panel burst in January. The incoming CEO will have a lot on his plate, such as strengthening the company's safety culture, taking care of quality problems, and winning back the public, customers, and regulatory trust. In its efforts to cut debt and catch up to rival Airbus of Europe, Boeing will also need to meet targets to increase production and cash flow. After a successful tenure leading the company's services business, Boeing named Stephanie Pope chief operating officer just three months ago, seemingly establishing her as a future leader. However, Pope took over as head of Boeing's commercial aircraft division on Monday, taking over for retiring Stan Deal, and he will be responsible for the MAX plant.

For the time being at least, observers say, her new role lessens the likelihood of her moving into the top post."The company was teeing up Stephanie Pope to likely succeed Calhoun but that seems to have changed in favor of an external search for a new CEO," Bert Subin, a Stifel analyst, said. "This could result in a high-profile hire."