Uday Shankar, Chairman of The Walt Disney Company in the Asia Pacific region, has announced that he will be stepping down from his role this December.
Uday Shankar was instrumental in bringing the successful launch of Disney+ to the region. Variety has a full report from both Shankar and Disney on this upcoming change in leadership.
Shankar’s words on leaving his position with the Walt Disney Company,
“I have always believed in the power of creativity and cutting-edge technology to create a better world and consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to do so at Star, 21CF and now at The Walt Disney Company. As I look back on this journey, I take pride in having set ambitious goals in my professional career, and achieving all that we set out to do. For some time now, I have been contemplating the question of how I give back to the country, community and the industry that have given me so much. I think the best way to express my gratitude to all of them will be to support and mentor a new generation of entrepreneurs as they set out to create transformational solutions that will have a positive impact on countless lives. I intend to partner with global investors and pioneers to achieve this.”
Rebecca Campbell, who is the head of Disney’s direct-to-consumer and international segment, had this to say,
“With the successful launch of Disney Plus throughout the region, he has helped put The Walt Disney Company in a commanding position in this dynamic and incredibly strategic part of the world. His vast experience and expertise have been invaluable in bringing together a strong, cohesive APAC leadership team to chart a path forward for our streaming businesses in the region and beyond. Uday has been a great friend, colleague and valued counselor to me personally, and I know I speak for all of DTCI when I say he will be greatly missed. At the same time, I understand and respect his desire to make this change. I am extremely grateful that he has agreed to stay on to help ensure a seamless transition.”
The Walt Disney Company is still dealing with the economic impacts of the pandemic. It is a difficult time to have leadership roles move around, especially one who was so vital to the success of Disney+ in a global marketplace.
No successor to Shankar has been named yet, and he will be working closely with Campbell to find someone suitable for the position.
What do you think of Uday Shankar stepping down as chairman of Disney India and Asia Pacific? Let us know in the comments.
Comments Off on Disney Chairman of Asia Pacific Region is Stepping Down
Credit: Disney & Variety 
