Bob Iger's CEO Replacement Could Come From Outside Disney, But As A Huge Fan, I Have Big Concerns
The Walt Disney Company is reportedly considering external candidates to replace Bob Iger as CEO, a move that could have significant implications for the company's future.
Iger, who has led Disney for 15 years, announced in February that he would be stepping down as CEO in 2024. The company has since begun a search for his replacement, and a number of internal candidates have been mentioned as potential successors, including Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D'Amaro and ESPN President Jimmy Pitaro.
However, according to a recent report from The Wall Street Journal, Disney is also considering external candidates for the CEO role. The report cites sources who say that the company has reached out to several high-profile executives in the media and technology industries.
The move to consider external candidates is a significant departure from Disney's traditional practice of promoting from within. In recent years, the company has promoted a number of executives from its ranks to senior leadership positions, including Iger himself, who was previously president of ABC.
However, the decision to consider external candidates suggests that Disney is looking for a CEO with a different set of skills and experiences than Iger. The company is facing a number of challenges, including the rise of streaming and the decline of traditional television, and it is possible that Disney believes that an external candidate with experience in these areas could help the company navigate these challenges.
The decision to consider external candidates has been met with mixed reactions from Disney fans. Some fans are concerned that an external CEO would not have the same understanding of Disney's culture and values as an internal candidate. Others believe that an external CEO could bring new ideas and perspectives to the company.
It is unclear when Disney will make a decision on Iger's replacement. The company has said that it is in no rush to find a new CEO, and it is possible that the search could take several months or even years.