Peltz's Praise: Gorman's Role in Disney's CEO Succession

Billionaire activist investor Nelson Peltz has expressed confidence in the incoming Disney chairman, James Gorman, to find a "respectable CEO" for the company. Gorman's appointment as chairman, effective January 2, 2025, signals a renewed focus on CEO succession at Disney. As the current chair of the succession planning committee, Gorman will now oversee the process with enhanced authority.

Gorman's experience in leading succession processes, including at Morgan Stanley, positions him well to guide Disney's critical task of identifying and preparing a successor to CEO Bob Iger. The expectation is to announce a new CEO in early 2026, and Gorman's appointment may accelerate this process. However, the timeline remains fluid, and the search for a suitable successor will likely continue until a qualified candidate is found.

Peltz's confidence in Gorman comes amidst his ongoing proxy fight with Disney, where he has been pushing for board seats and advocating for changes in the company's leadership. Peltz's vision for a 'respectable CEO' likely aligns with his desire for a leader who can drive growth, innovation, and shareholder value. This could potentially mean a CEO with strong business acumen, industry expertise, and a track record of successful leadership.

Gorman's appointment as chairman also suggests a renewed focus on corporate governance and succession planning at Disney. His expertise in finance and strategic vision, coupled with his experience in succession planning, could significantly shape the company's future business strategy. Gorman's leadership at Morgan Stanley, where he oversaw a successful succession process, indicates his ability to identify and groom talent, which could be crucial in finding a suitable successor to Iger.

As Disney continues its search for a new CEO, Gorman's appointment as chairman brings a fresh perspective to the process. His experience in succession planning and strategic leadership, combined with Peltz's confidence in his abilities, bodes well for Disney's future. The company's ongoing efforts to identify and prepare a successor to Iger will likely benefit from Gorman's expertise and guidance, ensuring a smooth transition and continued success.



In conclusion, Nelson Peltz's praise for James Gorman's role in finding a 'respectable CEO' for Disney highlights the importance of a well-structured succession process. Gorman's appointment as chairman, along with his experience in succession planning, signals a renewed focus on corporate governance and strategic leadership at Disney. As the company continues its search for a new CEO, investors can be confident that Gorman's expertise and Peltz's confidence in his abilities will contribute to a successful transition and a positive future for Disney.