F.Y.I.

Walt Disney Company’s managing director Australia and NZ to “hang up his ears” in July

Catherine Powell

Catherine Powell

The Walt Disney Company has announced Catherine Powell, its current senior vice president and general manager of Disney Media Distribution for The Walt Disney Company, Europe, Middle East and Africa, will replace John Cracknell as managing director, Australia and New Zealand following his retirement.

Cracknell will “hang up his ears” in July next year after 23 years of working for the company.

Powell will move from the UK to be based in the Sydney office.

Powell has worked for Disney for nearly 10 years, joining the company in 2004 following senior management roles at BBC Worldwide covering TV sales for Central & Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Andy Bird, chairman Walt Disney International said in a statement: “In the appointment of Catherine we have a terrific executive who keenly understands the future of the media industry. Her digital skills combined with exceptional management acumen and collaborative approach will make her a great leader for this region.”

“For 23 years John has displayed amazing commitment and dedication to the business, has created a world class team and in rising to the challenges of our industry, leaves The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand in excellent shape,” Bird said.

Cracknell joined the company in 1992 as managing director of Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment Australia and New Zealand. He was responsible for launching Disney’s Home Entertainment business and in 1998 Cracknell’s remit was expanded to include South East Asia which he managed until 2000.

In the same year he was named country manager, Walt Disney International for Australia and New Zealand and held the dual position of managing director of the Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment division for Australia and New Zealand.

In 2010 Cracknell was appointed to the role of managing director of The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand.

“I don’t think there’s a better company that I could have chosen to work for,” Mr. Cracknell said. “Disney has the best stories and characters, and the strongest franchises and for over 20 years I found myself saying there’s never been a better time to work at Disney. I grew up with characters and stories that I loved and I have enjoyed bringing them to families across Australia and New Zealand.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Get the latest media and marketing industry news (and views) direct to your inbox.

Sign up to the free Mumbrella newsletter now.

 

SUBSCRIBE

Sign up to our free daily update to get the latest in media and marketing.