Bob Iger comments on his extended contract as Walt Disney CEO in memo to Cast Members

Jul 12, 2023 in "The Walt Disney Company"

Posted: Wednesday July 12, 2023 8:08pm ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

Disney CEO Bob Iger has written to Cast Members sharing the news of his contract extension which will see him lead the company through 2026.

In the memo, Iger says, "We’ve made important and sometimes difficult decisions to address some existing structural and efficiency issues, and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to achieve together. But there is more to accomplish before this transformative work is complete, and I am committed to seeing this through."

When Iger regained control of Disney from Bob Chapek in November 2022, his agreement with the board was to lead the company for two years and find his successor. Since his arrival, several high-profile executives have left, including one leading potential successor, CFO Christine McCarthy.

We expect to hear more about his contract extension during a TV appearance with CNBC on Thursday morning.

Here is the full memo from Iger.

Dear Fellow Employees,

I want to thank you for your tremendous dedication, patience, and optimism as we’ve taken important steps to reposition the company for enduring creative and financial success. Since my return to Disney just seven months ago, I’ve examined virtually every facet of our businesses to fully understand the tremendous opportunities before us, as well as the challenges we face on numerous fronts.

We’ve made important and sometimes difficult decisions to address some existing structural and efficiency issues, and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to achieve together. But there is more to accomplish before this transformative work is complete, and I am committed to seeing this through.

To that end, I’m writing to share that I have agreed to the Disney Board’s request to remain CEO for an additional two years – through the end of 2026.

As I’ve said many times since we began this important transformation of the company, our progress will not be linear as we continue navigating a difficult economic environment and the tectonic shifts occurring in our industry. This is a moment that requires us to remain steadfast, strategic, and clear-eyed about the road ahead.

It is also important to me that Disney is strongly positioned when my successor takes the helm. As the Board continues to evaluate a highly qualified slate of internal and external candidates, I remain intensely focused on a successful CEO transition.

Through it all, I am unwaveringly optimistic about Disney’s future. I believe in this company. I believe in the leadership team I have around me. And I believe in you – our spectacular employees and Cast Members. It’s an honor to work alongside you as we chart Disney’s path forward together, and I look forward to all that we will continue to achieve over the coming years.

Thank you for all you do,
Bob

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Sirwalterraleigh14 days ago

I’ve got a boot ready for the kick

JoeCamel14 days ago

They wanted to throw Bob out the window? ;) :cool::hilarious:

Sirwalterraleigh14 days ago

What are you two enlightened Renaissance men carrying on about?

Casper Gutman14 days ago

Turns out the anti-Peltz crowd did exactly what they said they would - they went back to criticizing Iger and skeptically discussing potential expansion plans.

James Alucobond14 days ago

I was promised gloating from the anti-Peltz faction but found only endless self-indulgent wallowing from those who wanted to defenestrate Iger at any cost. 🤷🏻‍♂️

Casper Gutman14 days ago

Come on, Penguin, let them have their fun while everyone else moves on.

MisterPenguin14 days ago

Thank you for letting us know how wrong a Hollywood trade magazine is!!

Sirwalterraleigh14 days ago

I’m having DoorDash delivery a really spensive espresso that morning to listen to it bright and early ☕️

monothingie14 days ago

But D+ will be declared "profitable" at the next Q's earnings report!

Sirwalterraleigh14 days ago

…anyone surprised by this haven’t been watching closely enough

HauntedPirate14 days ago

Bob: "I know what will fix everything - Move the next shareholder meeting time to first thing in the morning. And make sure I get to emphasize how well DTC is doing. Because I'm a creative and visionary genius! Now, when am I going to get that lifetime contract?"

monothingie14 days ago

Down about 9% from its pre-annual shareholder meeting.

monothingie14 days ago

Grab a $5.50 Bottle of filtered tap water to cool off.

Sirwalterraleigh14 days ago

…gonna be a sweaty one out there in the empty parks today