Walt Disney International on Thursday announced that Rebecca Campbell, president, ABC-owned Television Station Group and ABC Daytime, will assume the role of president, The Walt Disney Company Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
The appointment is effective Jan. 1.
Diego Lerner, the company’s current president for the EMEA region, will return to his home in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and take on a new role as a part of the Walt Disney International management team reporting to its chairman Andy Bird.
“Rebecca’s ability to manage and lead the many disparate and geographically diverse stations across the U.S. with such incredible success makes her the best choice to lead our efforts in such a complex region,” Bird said in a statement. “Given Rebecca’s leadership role in the ever-changing media and entertainment landscape, she is uniquely positioned for success. Her combination of creative experience, leadership skills and business acumen will be a tremendous asset as we continue to develop new avenues of growth.”
Campbell has spent the last 20 years with the Disney/ABC Television Group, where she is responsible for the company’s eight local TV stations and their digital assets in New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; Philadelphia; San Francisco; Houston; Raleigh-Durham, N.C., and Fresno, Calif. She also oversees ABC National Television Sales and ABC Daytime.
“I want to thank Andy for giving me this incredible opportunity to lead the talented EMEA team. I couldn’t be more honored,” said Campbell. “Diego’s hard work during the past decade leaves us well prepared for our next wave of growth. I look forward to working with everyone in EMEA to elevate the Disney business, deepen our connection with existing consumers, and engage new ones.”
Lerner has served in the EMEA role since 2009, overseeing all lines of business of Disney in the region except for ESPN and Disneyland Resort Paris.
“Diego’s contributions to The Walt Disney Company have been transformational and long-lasting,” said Bird. “In addition to successfully helping us expand in key international markets, launching new businesses and developing new programing, he is a trusted advisor and tireless advocate for what makes Disney stand apart: our commitment to creating high-quality family entertainment.”
