Disney’s centralized
reorganization continues.
The company has promoted Debra OConnell to head its network division, according to The
Information, based on an internal Disney memo.
OConnell, who has served as president and general manager of WABC-TV since March 2018, will now oversee P&L for all of Disney’s
networks, including ESPN.
All budget and business strategy executives will now report to OConnell, instead of to individual network or content chiefs.
OConnell’s promotion was
announced by Kareem Daniel, who was promoted in mid October to lead ad sales and distribution as head of Disney’s newly created media and entertainment distribution group.
Daniel was
previously president of consumer products, games and publishing for Disney.
“As Disney focuses more on its Disney Plus streaming service, it is clearly making sure that its strategy for
the linear channels is as coordinated as it is for its streaming service,” notes The Information.