I actually believe that the fact that spaceX has a leadership qualified to make technical decisions is the reason they are the ones pushing the envelope.
First, I didn't make that claim. I do think, however, that the contributions of others must necessarily far outshadow his own considering that he is dividing his time between at least four companies. Even someone of equal competence (to say nothing of greater) working full time on just spacex would likely have a greater impact.
Then again, the thing would not have happened without him, so credit where credit is due.
You're right that figurehead probably isn't exactly the right word.
Then again, the thing would not have happened without him, so credit where credit is due.
You're right that figurehead probably isn't exactly the right word.