Disney promotes Adam Smith to direct-to-consumer chairman

Disney Entertainment has announced an executive leadership reshuffle, promoting Adam Smith to chairman of the direct-to-consumer division. Smith, who previously served as co-president of direct-to-consumer and chief product and technology officer for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, will now oversee the company’s global streaming business. His responsibilities include driving strategy and innovation for Disney+ and Hulu, covering areas such as product engineering, advertising technology, programming strategy, viewer experience, and data analytics.

In a related move, Joe Earley has been appointed to the newly created role of president of Disney Entertainment Television franchise and content strategy. Earley will lead the strategic development of television franchises to maximize audience engagement and business value. His oversight will include content and production for international originals, labor relations, and creative talent development.