Disney reorganizes Consumer Products to align licensing with studios

The Walt Disney Company is restructuring its Consumer Products division to better align global licensing and publishing with its studio operations. Effective October 4, the licensing and publishing arms of Disney Consumer Products will move under the Disney Studios umbrella.

Under this new structure, Cathleen Taff has been appointed President of Disney Entertainment – Studios and Consumer Products. Reporting to Alan Bergman, Chairman of Disney Studios, Taff will oversee the incoming licensing and publishing operations while maintaining her existing responsibilities. Her expanded portfolio includes production services, franchise management, and theatrical distribution for major labels such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, 20th Century Studios, and Searchlight Pictures. She will also continue to lead the Disney Theatrical Group and Disney Music Group.

While licensing and publishing move to the studios, Disney Parks merchandise and owned-and-operated retail businesses, including Disney Store locations and DisneyStore.com, will remain part of Disney Experiences. The reorganization aims to create closer synergy between the company’s storytelling and the commercial extension of its franchises.