January 24, 2000 – Robert Iger is Named President of The Walt Disney Company
“Bob Iger is recognized as a leader in the communications and entertainment industries. I believe his experience and expertise will prove instrumental in helping to guide our company to seize new opportunities.” – Disney CEO Michael Eisner
On January 24, 2000, Robert Iger was named as the President of the Walt Disney Company, filling the spot left open after Michael Ovitz left in 1996. Iger had started his career with ABC in 1974 and rose through the ranks to become the President and COO in 1994. After ABC’s merger with Disney, Iger remained the head of ABC before switching in 1999 to the President of Disney’s International Operations. Along with his promotion to the number 2 executive position within the company, Iger was also appointed to the board of directors.
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