Bob Iger returns as Disney CEO in surprising upheaval

What’s previous is new once more at Disney (DIS) — Bob Iger is formally again as CEO.

In a surprising flip of occasions, the media big introduced late Sunday that Iger will return to guide the corporate as its chief govt officer, efficient instantly.

Iger replaces Bob Chapek, who has stepped down from his place after lower than three years on the job.

Iger spent greater than 4 a long time at Disney, together with 15 years as its CEO.

Based on the corporate, Iger will function CEO for 2 years, with a mandate from the Board to “set the strategic route for renewed progress and to work carefully with the Board in growing a successor to guide the Firm on the completion of his time period.”

“The Board has concluded that as Disney embarks on an more and more advanced interval of trade transformation, Bob Iger is uniquely located to guide the Firm by means of this pivotal interval,” Susan Arnold, Disney’s chairman of the board, mentioned in a press launch.

The information comes simply months after Disney’s board of administrators unanimously voted in June to increase Chapek’s contract for one more three years, by means of 2025. On the time, the board famous Chapek’s management was important in serving to the corporate overcome pandemic headwinds.

However, his tenure has been riddled in controversy — from political battles and A-list expertise issues to controversial reorganizations and the ever-looming shadow of Iger, who has spoken out in opposition to a few of Chapek’s choices.

Since Chapek took over as Disney CEO in late February 2020, Disney shares are down about 19%; the S&P 500 is up round 34% over that very same interval.

“I’m extraordinarily optimistic for the way forward for this nice firm and thrilled to be requested by the Board to return as its CEO,” Iger mentioned within the launch.

“Disney and its incomparable manufacturers and franchises maintain a particular place within the hearts of so many individuals across the globe—most particularly within the hearts of our staff, whose dedication to this firm and its mission is an inspiration. I’m deeply honored to be requested to once more lead this exceptional staff, with a transparent mission targeted on inventive excellence to encourage generations by means of unmatched, daring storytelling,” he concluded.

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Alexandra is a Senior Leisure and Media Reporter at Yahoo Finance. Observe her on Twitter @alliecanal8193 and e mail her at alexandra.canal@yahoofinance.com

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