Disney Names Paul Roeder as New Chief Communications Officer

The Walt Disney Company has named Paul Roeder as its new Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, effective March 19, 2026. The announcement was made by incoming CEO Josh D'Amaro.

Paul Roeder: Disney's New Chief Communications Officer

Roeder takes over from Kristina Schake, who departs on March 18 alongside outgoing CEO Bob Iger.

He most recently served as Executive Vice President, Communications for Disney Entertainment Studios, Direct-to-Consumer, and International - a role he took on in 2023.

Before that, he led communications for The Walt Disney Studios from 2010, serving through major milestones including:

• The acquisitions of Lucasfilm (2012) and 21st Century Fox (2019)
• The 2019 launch of Disney+
• Blockbuster releases including Avengers: Endgame, Black Panther, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Frozen, and Inside Out 2

In his new role, Roeder reports directly to D'Amaro and takes responsibility for Disney's worldwide communications and public relations strategy. His remit includes media relations, executive communications, internal communications, public affairs, corporate social responsibility, and editorial strategy -- plus oversight of regional communications teams in EMEA, APAC, and Latin America.

D'Amaro pointed to Roeder's relationships across the company and the broader entertainment industry as central to the decision.

"He has a passion for Disney and a deep understanding of what it stands for," said D'Amaro. "I know he'll do an outstanding job leading our exceptional Communications teams worldwide."

Roeder joined Disney's ABC communications team in 2001, moving into corporate communications roles from 2002 through 2010 before shifting to The Walt Disney Studios. Earlier in his career he worked at William Morris and as an assistant to the executive producer on Meet the Parents. He is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and holds a bachelor's degree in English from De Pauw University.

"Disney is a place I love dearly, and it is a tremendous honor to take on this role at such an exciting and pivotal time for the company," Roeder said.