Bob Iger appears to have confirmed that he will be retiring for sure in 2021. The news came out of an investors presentation for Disney+ this last week. After presenting the launch date, pricing, and programming details, Iger made the confirmation.
During a question and answer portion of the presentation, Iger was asked about his future plans now that the Fox acquisition has gone through. The person asked the question prefaced it by saying “We’re all expecting your contract is over at the end of 2021.”
Iger responded, “I’m expecting my contract to expire at the end of 2021.” He continued with, “I’d say, ‘This time I mean it,’ but I’ve said that before. I’ve been CEO since October 2005 and as I’ve said many times, there’s a time for everything, and 2021 will be time for me to finally step down.”
Originally Bob Iger was set to retire in 2018. However, in March of 2017, his contract was extended to July 2, 2019. This last December it was extended yet again so that Iger to lead the integration of Fox into The Walt Disney Company.
Continuing his answer, Iger explained that he had been having discussions with the Disney Board of Directors about a plan for his successor. “They’ve been engaged in a succession process and we continue to feel they will be able to identify my successor on a timely enough basis so that this company has a smooth transition,” Iger shared.
Bob Iger became the CEO of The Walt Disney Company in 2005. Before that, he was the President and COO starting in 2000. Since becoming CEO, Iger has overseen the purchase of Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and now 21st Century Fox. He also has overseen the opening of Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland, along with expansions at enhancements at multiple other Disney Parks. His leadership tenure has seen massive growth for The Walt Disney Company.
What do you think of Bob Iger’s planned retirement? Do you think that this time he will actually step down? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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