Disney's board of directors has named Morgan Stanley executive chairman James Gorman as chairman of its succession planning committee, which will identify a replacement CEO to take over from Bob Iger.
James Gorman to Help Disney in Succession Battle
Gorman, who joined Disney's board earlier this year, oversaw the recent succession process at Morgan Stanley, where he previously served as the company's CEO. According to the committee's March 2024 letter to shareholders, the committee and the full board "evaluate internal and external candidates."
According to Disney's announcement, internal candidates will go through a "preparation process" that includes "mentoring" from Iger, as well as external coaching and engagement with all board members. Internal CEO candidates that Disney's board would consider include the four division heads: Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro and Josh D'Amaro, head of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.
Iger had previously stepped down as CEO of Disney in early 2020, but returned as CEO in November 2022 following the ouster of Bob Chapek. Iger's renewed Disney contract runs through the end of 2026.
