Disney has recently announced that Morgan Stanley CEO James Gorman will be joining a succession planning committee, advising the board on the selection of Bob Iger’s successor. Gorman, who is stepping down from his position at Morgan Stanley, will officially join Disney’s board in February. This move is seen as a strategic decision to prevent a proxy fight by activist fund Trian and its chief, Nelson Peltz. In this article, we will delve into Gorman’s role in the succession planning committee and the challenges faced by Disney.
Gorman’s appointment to Disney’s board is commendable, given his successful track record in managing succession processes during his tenure at Morgan Stanley. His experience and expertise will be valuable assets in selecting a suitable successor for Bob Iger. Although Gorman’s official directorship begins in February, he has already shown his commitment to the role by expressing his eagerness to join the succession planning committee.
Gorman’s previous battles with activist investors have prepared him for the challenges that may arise during the succession planning process at Disney. Trian, an activist fund, expressed its dissatisfaction with the appointments made by Disney and advocated for Peltz and former Disney executive Jay Rasulo to join the board. While Gorman remains unfazed by such battles, it remains to be seen how these conflicts will be resolved and whether Trian’s demands will be considered.
Bob Iger’s leadership has been crucial for Disney’s success, as he was able to navigate the company through a number of challenges. He was appointed CEO in November 2022 after the turbulent tenure of his hand-picked successor, Bob Chapek. Iger’s contract has been renewed multiple times, with the most recent extension taking it through 2026. During his tenure, Disney faced headwinds such as box office flops and losses in the streaming market. In response, Iger implemented cost-cutting measures, including layoffs and a focus on reducing expenses.
Selecting a suitable successor for Bob Iger is crucial for Disney’s future success. The chosen individual must possess the leadership qualities and vision necessary to navigate the company through the evolving entertainment landscape. Given Gorman’s experience in managing succession at Morgan Stanley, his role in the succession planning committee will be vital in ensuring a smooth transition of leadership for Disney.
James Gorman’s appointment to Disney’s succession planning committee brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. His role in selecting Bob Iger’s successor is of utmost importance, as Disney faces numerous challenges and the demands of activist investors. The success of this succession process will play a crucial role in determining Disney’s future trajectory in the entertainment industry.
Leave a Reply