USA: Surprising Leadership Change: Bob Iger Returns as CEO of Disney

The Walt Disney Company announced yesterday that Robert A. Iger has returned to the top management of Disney, effective immediately. The former chief executive and former chairman of the board has agreed to take the helm of the media company for another two years in order to once again drive the company’s growth and work closely with the board in its search for a successor to lead the company after his term expires. Iger, who had only left the company in 2020 after more than 15 years in the position as CEO, thus takes over from his own successor Bob Chapek. The latter steered the company through the pandemic, but recently had to accept continuing losses at the streaming service “Disney+” and has now stepped down from the position.

“We thank Bob Chapek for his service to Disney over his long career, including navigating the company through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic,” said Susan Arnold, Chairman of the Board since the end of 2021. “The Board has concluded that as Disney embarks on an increasingly complex period of industry transformation, Bob Iger is uniquely situated to lead the Company through this pivotal period.” She adds, “Iger has the deep respect of Disney’s senior leadership team, most of whom he worked closely with until his departure as executive chairman 11 months ago, and he is greatly admired by Disney employees worldwide – all of which will allow for a seamless transition of leadership.” Under Iger’s leadership, Disney had become one of the world’s most successful and respected media companies. (eap)