Bob Iger returns as Disney CEO after 2 years

Bob Iger is once again the CEO of The Walt Disney Company.

Disney announced Sunday that Iger took over as CEO from Bob Chapek, who resigned his position, effective immediately.

“We thank Bob Chapek for his service to Disney during his long career, including leading the company through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic,” said Susan Arnold, chair of the board. “The Board has concluded that as Disney embarks on an increasingly complex period of industry transformation, Bob Iger is uniquely positioned to lead the Company through this crucial period.”

In 2005, Iger became CEO of Disney and served in the role for 15 years. The retired in February 2020 (although he continued to serve as CEO until December 2021), and was succeeded by then-parks director Chapek, a veteran who had spent nearly three decades with the company.

Iger’s return as CEO appears to be a temporary two-year deal.

Iger “has agreed to serve as CEO of Disney for two years, with a mandate from the Board to set the strategic direction for renewed growth and to work closely with the Board on developing a successor to lead the Company at the end of his tenure.” “. the board said.

“I am extremely optimistic about the future of this great company and am delighted to be asked by the Board to return as its CEO,” Iger said in a statement.

“Disney and its unparalleled brands and franchises hold a special place in the hearts of so many people around the world, especially in the hearts of our employees, whose dedication to this company and its mission is an inspiration. I am deeply honored to be honored.” will be asked to return to lead this remarkable team, with a clear mission focused on creative excellence to inspire generations through bold and unrivaled storytelling.”

Besides since the launch of the streaming service Disney PlusIger’s previous 15-year stint as CEO was marked by the Acquisition of Pixar for 7.4 billion dollarsthe Marvel acquisition for 4,000 million dollars and the $4 billion purchase of Star Wars studio Lucasfilm. named hour Iger Entrepreneur of the Year for 2019.

Chapek’s two-year tenure was plagued with controversy. By the end of 2021, more than 80,000 people had signed a petition to remove Chapek as CEO. A series of problems affected Disneyland, from app outages at rising prices. In March, Chapek reaction received of Disney employees for not immediately condemning an anti-LGBTQ bill in Florida.