New Delhi: The Walt Disney Company today announced a timeline for the appointment of its next Chief Executive Officer, revealing plans to unveil the new leader by early 2026.
Former Morgan Stanley CEO James Gorman, who was appointed to oversee Disney’s succession planning in August, has been named the company’s new chairman. Gorman will replace Mark Parker, who has served on Disney’s board for nine years and will step down on January 2, 2025.
Bob Iger, who returned to lead Disney in November 2022 following a brief retirement, has had his contract extended through December 2026. Iger will continue to serve as CEO during the transition period.
Gorman, known for his successful leadership at Morgan Stanley, brings a wealth of experience in finance and strategic management to Disney. His role will include overseeing the CEO selection process, which is expected to culminate in the announcement of a new CEO by early 2026.
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“Disney’s board is committed to a meticulous and thoughtful succession process,” Gorman said, emphasizing that the early 2026 announcement would “allow ample time for a successful transition.”
While the company has not officially named any internal candidates, reports suggest that Disney’s four top executives—TV head Dana Walden, ESPN’s Jimmy Pitaro, theme parks chief Josh D’Amaro, and film division leader Alan Bergman—are potential contenders for the CEO position.
As the company prepares for a new era of leadership, industry observers will be closely watching the CEO selection process and anticipating the announcement of Disney’s next visionary leader.
