There's a new person at the top of Boeing's German operation.

Lianne Stein has been named president of Boeing Germany... and vice-president of Boeing's International Operations. Stein, who will be based in Berlin, will be in charge of guiding Boeing's sales and development strategies throughout Germany and Europe -- highly competitive markets for both Boeing, as well as rival Airbus.

"Germany is home to some of our most important customers. It's also a business center renowned for industrial innovation," said Boeing Chairman, President and CEO Jim McNerney. "Many German technology companies are suppliers and partners for Boeing programs, including four suppliers to the 787 and the large cargo freighter. Lianne will focus on further strengthening and expanding our business and government relationships and partnerships in Germany," McNerney said.

Laurette Koellner, president of Boeing International, said, "Lianne will join a team of country and regional executives in more than 20 offices worldwide, strengthening Boeing's global presence and focusing on business- growth opportunities. With her background in government relations, sales, and marketing, Lianne is uniquely qualified to lead the Boeing team in Germany and pursue new growth and productivity initiatives to expand our business."

Prior to her new role, Stein was vice president of Commercial Aviation at Boeing's now defunct Connexion operation. Before that, she was VP of Boeing Commercial Airplanes in Washington, DC. We're sure the lobbying skills that Stein developed in that role, will serve her well in her new position.

Before joining Boeing, Stein served as vice president and senior European marketing representative for International Lease Finance Corporation and was manager of flight training course development at Flying Tigers air freight airline.

Oh, and one more thing... Stein is also a private pilot.

FMI: www.boeing.com