Bob Chapek to Head Revamped Disney Consumer Products

9 Sep, 2011 By: Erik Gruenwedel

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Home entertainment veteran put in charge of updated consumer products division consolidating disc, toy and retail businesses

The Walt Disney Co. Sept. 9 named Robert Chapek president of Disney Consumer Products, reporting directly to CEO Bob Iger.

Chapek, who two years ago was put in charge of Disney’s combined theatrical and home entertainment distribution units, retains control of packaged media, which will now be handled under the consumer products unit.

The new unit consolidates retail and licensing across Disney’s lines of business including Walt Disney Studios, Pixar, Marvel, media networks, interactive media and consumer products.

Theatrical distribution now will be headed by Alan Bergman, president of Walt Disney Studios, who also assumes control of distribution of Disney movies across all TV platforms such as pay-TV.

Chapek has been at the forefront on technological issues for Disney, including the high-definition Blu-ray Disc, in-home 3D movies and the studio’s proprietary KeyChest digital locker platform.

In his previous role as president of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, Chapek played a key role in the commercialization of Disney’s live-action and animated direct-to-video businesses.

“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,” Iger said in a statement. “As the retail market becomes more centralized, it is important to provide the consumer with an array of choices in a seamless, coordinated way.”

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