BURBANK, Calif. - The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS), a $200.91 billion entertainment giant generating $91.36 billion in annual revenue, announced strategic changes to its executive team, including the creation of a new role to oversee major events and the appointment of new leaders at Disneyland Resort, Disney Signature Experiences, and Shanghai Disney Resort. The reshuffle aligns with Disney Experiences’ ambitious expansion plans for its cruise line and global theme parks. According to InvestingPro analysis, Disney maintains a GOOD financial health score, positioning it well for these strategic initiatives.
Ken Potrock, a Disney veteran of three decades, has been named President of The Walt Disney Company Major Events Integration. Potrock will develop cross-company strategies for large-scale events such as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the 250th Anniversary of the United States. He previously managed the successful reopening of Disneyland Resort post-pandemic and initiated DisneylandForward, a project enabling Anaheim’s expansion over the next 40 years. Potrock will report to Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, and to Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN.
Thomas Mazloum steps into the role of President of Disneyland Resort, overseeing its operation, which includes two theme parks and the Downtown Disney District. Mazloum’s previous leadership at Disney Signature Experiences saw Disney Cruise Line’s fleet expansion plans, aiming to double by 2031. His experience covers various leadership roles at Walt Disney World. Mazloum will continue reporting to D’Amaro.
Joe Schott (ETR:1SXP) is now President of Disney Signature Experiences, after leading Shanghai Disney Resort since 2019. His tenure there included the introduction of Zootopia-themed land and the development of new attractions. Schott’s 40-year career with Disney includes positions at Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort. His appointment is crucial as Disney Cruise Line plans to extend its reach globally. Schott will report directly to D’Amaro.
Andrew Bolstein has been promoted to President & General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort, having been part of the resort’s opening team and holding various leadership roles in Disney’s international parks. Bolstein will report to Jill Estorino, President and Managing Director of Disney Parks International.
Disney Experiences operates 12 theme parks worldwide, Disney Cruise Line, and Disney’s consumer products division. The executive transitions are effective immediately, as stated in the press release.
This strategic executive realignment at Disney Experiences is poised to steer the division through a period of significant growth, leveraging the expertise of its seasoned leaders to maximize opportunities in the global travel and leisure industry. With an EBITDA of $17.31 billion and a robust 35.75% gross profit margin, Disney demonstrates strong operational efficiency. For deeper insights into Disney’s financial performance and growth prospects, InvestingPro subscribers can access comprehensive analysis, including 8 additional ProTips and detailed valuation metrics in the Pro Research Report, helping investors make informed decisions about this entertainment industry leader.
In other recent news, Walt Disney Company has been active in the market, with several significant developments. Disney reinstated its Buy rating with Citi, which set a price target of $125, indicating a promising risk-reward scenario for investors. The company’s earnings per share (EPS) guidance is expected to see high single-digit growth in fiscal year 2025 and double-digit growth in the following years, according to Citi.
Disney has also announced a merger with FuboTV (NYSE:FUBO), integrating Disney’s Hulu + Live TV service with FuboTV. Post-merger, Disney will hold a 70% stake in the combined entity, which will continue to operate under the Fubo name. The merger is expected to bring together over 6.2 million subscribers from North America and launch a Sports & Broadcast service featuring Disney’s top sports and broadcast networks.
In addition to the merger, Disney announced a new animated feature film for the popular series Bluey, scheduled for release in 2027. The movie will be streamed on Disney+ following its global theatrical release.
On the analysts’ front, Disney’s stock was upgraded by Redburn-Atlantic from Neutral to Buy, significantly raising the price target from $100.00 to $147.00. Rosenblatt Securities recently upgraded Disney’s stock price target, maintaining a Buy rating due to confidence in Disney’s growth potential. Meanwhile, Jefferies initiated coverage on Disney stock with a Hold rating, highlighting strong momentum for Disney’s direct-to-consumer business and an anticipated recovery in the Parks segment’s operating income growth. These are some of the recent developments in Disney’s business operations and market position.
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