Disney Faces External Option for CEO Successor
Portfolio - People | Nov 13, 2024 | EIN
The article discusses the impending succession process at The Walt Disney Company as its CEO Bob Iger prepares to step down at the end of 2026. Several internal candidates from Disney, such as ESPN's Jim Pitaro, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amato, and Walt Disney Studios' co-heads Dana Walden and Alan Horn, are considered potential successors. However, an external candidate, Andrew Wilson, CEO of Electronic Arts, is also under consideration by Disney's Board of Directors. The debate over appointing an external candidate centers on the unique complexity of Disney's diverse business, which includes theme parks, studios, and merchandising. The Company historically considers CEO candidates who have internal experience but is now contemplating external leadership to bring fresh perspectives while managing the risk of losing Disney's cultural essence.
Sectors
- Entertainment
- Theme Parks and Resorts
- Media and Consumer Merchandise
Geography
- United States – Disney is headquartered in the U.S. and its major operations, including theme parks and studios, are primarily based there.
Industry
- Entertainment – Disney operates across various segments in the entertainment industry, including film production, theme parks, and media networks.
- Theme Parks and Resorts – A significant division within Disney that generates major revenue and requires specific leadership experience.
- Media and Consumer Merchandise – Disney earns substantial income from media content and merchandise linked to its entertainment properties.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Walt Disney Company | Target company | Company | A leading global entertainment company known for its film studios, theme parks, and media networks. |
| Bob Iger | CEO | Person | The current CEO of The Walt Disney Company, set to step down in 2026. |
| Jim Pitaro | ESPN Chief, potential CEO candidate | Person | Leads Disney's ESPN division, considered as an internal candidate for Disney's CEO position. |
| Josh D'Amato | Disney Experiences Chairman, potential CEO candidate | Person | Oversees Disney's theme parks and resorts, regarded as a potential internal successor. |
| Dana Walden | Co-head of Walt Disney Studios, potential CEO candidate | Person | Influential in Disney's studio operations with a strong network in Hollywood. |
| Alan Horn | Co-head of Walt Disney Studios, potential CEO candidate | Person | Shares leadership of Disney Studios and is a prominent figure within the company's leadership. |
| Andrew Wilson | Potential CEO candidate | Person | CEO of Electronic Arts, being considered as an external candidate for Disney's CEO role. |
| Disney Board of Directors | Decision-making body | Company | Responsible for considering and appointing the next CEO of Disney. |