Boeing has announced the appointment of Travis Sullivan as president of its Southeast Asia operations, effective July 3, as the aerospace manufacturer continues to strengthen its presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. Sullivan, who currently serves as vice president and general manager of Boeing Distribution, will relocate from Miami to Singapore to lead the company’s strategy and operations across the Southeast Asia region. He succeeds Penny Burtt, who has departed Boeing to pursue another professional opportunity.
Commenting on the appointment, Brendan Nelson AO, president of Boeing Global, said Sullivan brings extensive experience across Boeing’s commercial, defense and services businesses, making him well-positioned to support the company’s long-term growth ambitions in the region.
“Travis is an accomplished leader with deep experience across Boeing’s three business units,” Nelson said. “His background in international strategy and policy will help guide the future for Boeing in Southeast Asia, a growth market for the company.”
Sullivan has held several senior leadership roles during his career at Boeing. Before leading Boeing Distribution, he headed the company’s corporate strategy organization and previously managed strategy and business development teams within Boeing Defense, Space & Security and Boeing Commercial Airplanes. He has also led initiatives focused on international strategic partnerships and global policy.
Speaking on his new role, Sullivan highlighted the significance of Southeast Asia to Boeing’s global operations.
“It is a privilege to join the highly experienced team in Southeast Asia and help drive Boeing’s business in one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally,” he said. “Boeing has played a key role as an aerospace leader in Southeast Asia for nearly 80 years. I look forward to working with our teammates, customers and partners to support Boeing’s mission and strengthen our presence in this important region.”
Before joining Boeing, Sullivan held public policy positions with the U.S. Department of Commerce, the White House and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. He also served as senior policy advisor to U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell.
Sullivan holds degrees from the University of Washington, George Washington University and Johns Hopkins University, and has completed Harvard Business School’s Executive General Management Program.
Boeing has maintained a presence in Southeast Asia for nearly eight decades, working with governments, airlines and defense organizations to support aerospace development across the region. The company operates offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines.
Singapore serves as Boeing’s Southeast Asia headquarters and acts as a major hub for commercial and defense sales, aftermarket services, digital solutions, training, research collaborations, safety programs and sustainable aviation initiatives. The appointment comes as Boeing continues to expand its engagement across the region amid growing demand for commercial aviation and aerospace capabilities.
