Disney CEO Bob Iger's contract extended until 2026

The Walt Disney Co.’s board of directors has announced an extension of CEO Bob Iger’s contract until 2026, two years longer than his previous agreement. This move allows Iger more time to find a suitable successor and ensures continuity for the company’s strategic direction.

Mark G. Parker, chairman of Disney’s board, expressed confidence in Iger’s leadership, stating, “Bob has once again set Disney on the right strategic path for ongoing value creation, and to ensure the successful completion of this transformation while also allowing ample time to position a new CEO for long-term success, the Board determined it is in the best interest of shareholders to extend his tenure.”

After serving as CEO for 15 years, Iger initially retired at the end of 2021. However, he returned in November following the departure of his successor, Bob Chapek. At the time, Iger agreed to a two-year contract with a focus on charting a renewed growth trajectory for the company and aiding in the search for his eventual replacement.

Speaking about the extension, Iger commented, “On my first day back, we began making important and sometimes difficult decisions to address some existing structural and efficiency issues, and despite the challenges, I believe Disney’s long-term future is incredibly bright. But there is more to accomplish before this transformative work is complete, and because I want to ensure Disney is strongly positioned when my successor takes the helm, I have agreed to the Board’s request to remain CEO for an additional two years.”

During his second tenure, Iger has overseen significant changes at Disney. These include a reorganization of the business into three divisions and the implementation of a substantial cost-cutting strategy amounting to $5.5 billion, resulting in the elimination of 7,000 jobs.

With the contract extension, Bob Iger’s continued leadership will guide Disney through its ongoing transformation, ensuring a smooth transition for the company and its shareholders as it prepares for a prosperous future under new leadership.