Joyce Leaver has been promoted to Vice President, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company, it was announced today by Michael O. Johnson, President, Walt Disney International and Zenia Mucha, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company.
In her new role Ms Leaver will assume responsibility for both communications policies and strategic positioning of The Walt Disney Company throughout Europe. She will oversee media relations, set direction for regional corporate positioning and drive key PR brand building initiatives, working closely with the Walt Disney International team in Europe, and the diverse business segments of Disney including Media Networks, Parks and Resorts, Studio Entertainment and Consumer Products. She will report jointly to Burbank-based Mr Johnson and Ms Mucha.
In announcing the promotion, Mr Johnson said: “Joyce’s contribution to the successful launch of Walt Disney Studios was considerable. She has an excellent understanding of the Company’s operations and brand philosophy.”
Ms Mucha said: “Joyce has proven knowledge and a keen understanding of the European media landscape. Her experience will be invaluable as we continue to implement the Company’s communications strategy in the region.”
Ms Leaver has been Director of Alliance Marketing for Disneyland Resort Paris in Europe for the past two years. During this time, she designed the communications launch strategy for Walt Disney Studios, the new theme park, and oversaw the implementation of an integrated communications plan across Europe supported by media relations, media promotions and synergy activity with the other Disney business units. She orchestrated the media launch event at the new park and, working with a dedicated team of media relations and broadcast specialists, turned opening day into an international news event. At Disneyland Resort Paris, she was also responsible for the development and growth of the Internet site and set the direction for the Company’s on-line sales and marketing strategies.
Previously in her career, Ms Leaver spent six years with The Walt Disney Company based in London handling media relations for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, representing Walt Disney World, Florida and Disneyland, California. She also directed the integrated marketing launch in Europe for the Disney Cruise Line.
Prior to joining The Walt Disney Company, Ms Leaver spent several years in agencies and in-house, developing media relations strategies for UK-based on and off-line entertainment and travel companies.