Ross ushers in the new guard at Disney in major reshuffle

The move follows this week’s departure of 29-year Disney stalwart Mark Zoradi and represents a significant overhaul of the former regime following the recent exit of Ross’ predecessor Dick Cook.

Bob Chapek will take on the new role of president of distribution at The Walt Disney Studios (TWDS) and will be tasked with developing distribution strategy and overseeing the delivery of all film and television content across theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, pay-TV, digital and other new media platforms. Chapek previously served as president of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

A new president of marketing will be announced shortly to oversee live-action, animation, Miramax Films, DreamWorks, and home entertainment. Ross removed Daniel Battsek as Miramax president last week.

TWDS president Alan Bergman will take on the new duties of overseeing studio franchises, post-production, Disneynature and The Muppets Studio, while continuing to guide operations including business affairs, legal affairs, and finance.

Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production president Oren Aviv will take on the added responsibility of physical production. All four business heads will report to Ross.

Furthermore former Pixar technology head Greg Brandeau will assume the role of chief technology officer and TWDS executive vice-president, with a focus on emerging global platforms. He also reports to Ross. 

“The way today’s audiences and consumers experience our movies, home entertainment, and other multi-platform programming is rapidly changing as new technology offers more options than ever before,” Ross said. “The studio restructuring will embrace new possibilities and opportunities, and find innovative ways to provide quality entertainment that is readily available.”