Disney Veteran Paul Roeder Named Chief Communications Officer

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:40pm

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Disney Entertainment veteran Paul Roeder has been named the new chief communications officer for Walt Disney Co. Roeder, who has worked at Disney for 25 years, will step into the role on March 19, a day after incoming CEO Josh D’Amaro succeeds Bob Iger. Roeder will report directly to D’Amaro and lead the company’s media relations, executive and internal communications, employee engagement, and corporate social responsibility, among other responsibilities.

Why it matters

Roeder’s appointment is a key part of the leadership transition at Disney as D’Amaro takes over as CEO. The chief communications officer role is critical in shaping the company’s public narrative and messaging, especially during a time of change.

The details

Roeder replaces Kristina Schake, who has served in the top communications role since before Iger returned to the company in late 2022. Disney had said in February that Schake would depart her position after March 18. In his new role, Roeder will lead the company’s media relations, executive and internal communications, as well as employee engagement and corporate social responsibility.

Roeder will step into the new job on March 19, a day after D’Amaro succeeds Bob Iger at the company’s annual meeting with shareholders.Schake will depart her position after March 18.
The players

Paul Roeder

A Disney Entertainment veteran who has worked at the company for 25 years and was recently named the new chief communications officer.

Josh D’Amaro

The incoming CEO of Walt Disney Co. who is appointing Roeder to the chief communications officer role.

Bob Iger

The outgoing CEO of Walt Disney Co. who is being succeeded by D’Amaro.

Kristina Schake

The previous chief communications officer at Walt Disney Co. who is departing the role.

Jill Estorino

The new head of Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, previously serving as president and managing director of Disney Parks International.

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What they’re saying

“He has a passion for Disney and a deep understanding of what it stands for. I know he’ll do an outstanding job leading our exceptional communications teams worldwide.”

— Josh D’Amaro, Incoming CEO, Walt Disney Co. (latimes.com)

What’s next

Roeder will begin his new role as chief communications officer for Walt Disney Co. on March 19, the day after D’Amaro succeeds Iger as CEO.

The takeaway

Roeder’s appointment as Disney’s new chief communications officer is a key part of the leadership transition at the company, as the veteran executive will play a critical role in shaping the company’s public narrative and messaging under the new CEO, D’Amaro.