Disney’s new CEO Josh D’Amaro has found a head of communications.
The Walt Disney Company said Thursday that Paul Roeder will be promoted to senior executive vice president and chief communications officer, a critical role that will oversee Disney’s global communications strategy, public relations, public affairs, and corporate social responsibility, in addition to serving as the company’s chief spokesperson.
Given Disney’s status as a globally recognized family brand, its reputation and public perception are often top of mind for executives there.
Roeder is a 25-year Disney veteran, most recently serving as Executive Vice President of Communications for Disney Studios Entertainment, Direct-to-Consumer and International, including overseeing communications and publicity for Disney’s significant theatrical film business.
In his new position, he will report directly to Damaro.
“Paul Roeder is an accomplished and highly respected executive with keen instincts and integrity who has built strong relationships in every area of the company and across the entertainment industry during his 25 years with Disney,” D’Amaro said in a statement. “He has a passion for Disney and a deep understanding of what it stands for, and I know he will do a great job leading our exceptional communications teams around the world.”
“Disney is a place I love dearly, and it is an honor to take on this role at such an exciting and pivotal time for the company,” Roeder added. “I have great respect for Josh D’Amaro, Dana Walden, and the entire executive team – as well as my talented communications colleagues – and I am extremely optimistic about what we will be able to accomplish together. I am extremely grateful to Josh for this wonderful opportunity, to Alan Bergman for his guidance and support over his 15 years of service at Walt Disney Studios, and to Bob Iger for the encouragement and insight he has generously provided throughout my career at Disney.”
Ruder succeeds Christina Schack, who will exit the company next week along with outgoing CEO Bob Iger (Iger will remain on Disney’s board of directors until the end of 2026).
D’Amaro, who was named Iger’s successor last month, has also made changes at Disney’s Experiences division in recent days, promoting Thomas Mazloum to chairman of the board and naming Gil Estorino as Disney’s next president; Tassia Philippatos, President, Disney Parks International; Lisa Baldzycki, president of Disney Consumer Products.
