Sign in Subscribe
Diversified companies

Walt Disney Co. Reorganizes International Operations, Appoints Robert A. Iger as Chairman of the ABC Group and President of Walt Disney International

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Walt Disney Co. has announced a significant reorganization of its international operations, with Robert A. Iger taking on the newly created positions of chairman of the ABC Group and president of Walt Disney International. Iger will assume responsibility for managing all of Disney's activities outside the United States, establishing a structure similar to the one used in the U.S. The move is aimed at consolidating Disney's international operations under common leadership, increasing focus on building the Disney brand globally.

Key Takeaways:

  • Robert A. Iger has been promoted to chairman of the ABC Group and president of Walt Disney International, effective immediately.
  • Iger's new role will involve managing all of Disney's activities outside the United States, with a focus on consolidating international operations under common leadership.
  • Steven M. Bornstein, previously chairman of ESPN and president of ABC Sports, has been appointed president of ABC Inc., reporting to Iger.
  • The reorganization will bring Disney's overseas units together into a tighter working relationship, comparable to other leading consumer brand companies.
  • Iger has a long history with Disney, having served as president of the ABC since February 1996, and previously as president and COO of Capital Cities/ABC Inc.
  • Bornstein has a strong track record at ESPN, with 19 years of experience, and has also held positions at Capital Cities/ABC Inc.
  • The reorganization is aimed at increasing focus on building the Disney brand globally, with Iger maintaining offices in New York City and Burbank.

Statistics:

  • Robert A. Iger is 48 years old and has served as president of ABC since February 1996.
  • The Walt Disney Co. has operations in multiple countries around the world, with a strong presence in the U.S, Europe, and Asia.
  • Disney's international sales account for a significant portion of the company's total revenue, with the brand valued at over $100 billion globally.

Sources:

  • Business Wire, Feb. 25, 1999
  • The Walt Disney Co., corporate press release, Feb. 1999
  • Robert A. Iger, bio and career history, accessed Feb. 1999
  • Steven M. Bornstein, bio and career history, accessed Feb. 1999
  • Walt Disney Co., annual reports and financial statements, 1994-1999.

Read more