BURBANK, Calif. – The Walt Disney Company President and CEO Robert A. Iger announced today Robert Chapek, President of Distribution for The Walt Disney Studios, has been promoted to President of Disney Consumer Products, reporting to Iger.
With this announcement, Chapek will oversee a newly formed companywide consumer products organization, which will consolidate retail and licensing across Disney’s lines of business including Walt Disney Studios, Pixar, Marvel, Media Networks, Interactive Media and Consumer Products.
“Bob’s vast experience, talent and proven track record will be key to implementing a consolidated approach to retail resulting in a more efficient and effective organization,” said Mr. Iger. “As the retail market becomes more centralized, it is important to provide the consumer with an array of choices in a seamless, coordinated way.”
Chapek said, “I’m excited about the opportunity to lead our newly expanded team and to grow our brands, franchises and movie properties in the fast-changing retail and licensing marketplace.”
In support of the new mission of cross-company retail integration, Alan Bergman, President of the Walt Disney Studios, will assume Chapek’s former responsibilities of theatrical and TV platform distribution of studio movies.
Since November 2009, Chapek has led The Walt Disney Studios’ distribution, developing strategy and overseeing the delivery of all motion pictures and television content, across the theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, pay TV, digital formats, and other new media. Chapek has been visionary on technological issues, and oversees the development of various new technologies including next generation high-definition Blu-ray Disc, in home 3D solutions, and interoperability solutions such as KeyChest and digital distribution.
In his previous role as president of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, Chapek led the organization to record-setting performances on numerous movie titles. He has played a key role in the commercialization of Disney’s live-action and animated direct-to-video business.
Prior to joining Disney, Bob practiced brand management in the packaged goods industry with the H.J. Heinz Company and in the advertising business with J. Walter Thompson.
Disney Consumer Products (DCP), the world’s largest licensor, is a business segment of The Walt Disney Company and its affiliates that currently extends the Disney brand to merchandise ranging from apparel, toys and home décor to books and magazines, foods and beverages, stationery, electronics and animation art. This is accomplished through DCP’s various lines of business which include: Disney Fashion & Home, Disney Food, Health & Beauty and Disney Toys & Social Expressions.
Other businesses involved in Disney’s consumer products sales are Disney Publishing Worldwide, the world’s largest publisher of children’s books and magazines and DisneyStore.com and DisneyStore.co.uk, the company’s official shopping portal. The Disney Stores retail chain, which debuted in 1987, is owned and operated by Disney in North America, Europe and Japan. Disney English currently operates 15 English language learning centers in Shanghai and Beijing , China.
DCP develops Disney entertainment franchises into 365 day-a-year product opportunities at retailers worldwide. Disney-branded merchandise is inspired by characters from Disney’s beloved animated films and live-action films as well as Disney’s television entertainment, Disney Channel and Disney XD.