Incoming Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro has found his communications chief.
The Walt Disney Co. said Thursday that Paul Roeder would be elevated to senior executive VP and chief communications officer, a critical role that oversees Disney’s global communications and public relations strategy, public affairs, and corporate social responsibility, as well as serving as the lead spokesperson for the company.
Given Disney’s status as a globally-known family brand, its reputation and public perception are frequently top of mind for executives there.
Roeder is a 25-year veteran of Disney, most recently serving as executive VP of communications for Disney Entertainment Studios, Direct-to-Consumer, and International, including oversight of communications and publicity for Disney’s important theatrical film business.
In his new role he will report directly to D’Amaro.
“Paul Roeder is an accomplished and highly respected executive with keen instincts and integrity, and he has built strong relationships in every area of the company and across the entertainment industry during his 25 years with Disney,” said D’Amaro in a statement. “He has a passion for Disney and a deep understanding of what it stands for, and I know he’ll do an outstanding job leading our exceptional Communications teams worldwide.”
“Disney is a place I love dearly, and it is a tremendous honor to take on this role at such an exciting and pivotal time for the company,” added Roeder. “I have huge respect for Josh D’Amaro, Dana Walden, and the entire executive team – as well as my talented Communications colleagues – and I’m incredibly optimistic about what we’ll be able to accomplish together. I’m deeply grateful to Josh for this wonderful opportunity, to Alan Bergman for his mentorship and support over the 15 years I’ve served him at The Walt Disney Studios, and to Bob Iger for the encouragement and insight he has so generously offered throughout my career at Disney.”
Roeder succeeds Kristina Schake, who will exit the company next week alongside outgoing CEO Bob Iger (Iger will remain on Disney’s board through the end of 2026).
D’Amaro, who was tapped as Iger’s successor last month, has also made changes at Disney’s Experiences division in recent days, elevating Thomas Mazloum to chairman, and naming Jill Estorino as the next president of Disney; Tasia Filippatos president of Disney Parks International; and Lisa Baldzicki president of Disney Consumer Products.
