Disney is promoting HR manager Sonia Coleman to Senior EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer, effective April 8, reporting to CEO Bob Iger.
Coleman, who most recently led HR for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, succeeds Paul Richardson, who is leaving the company after more than 15 years.
In the HR role, she will lead Disney’s people strategy, global talent acquisition, leadership development, diversity and inclusion, organizational design and cultural development, employee training and development, compensation and benefits, HR operations and technology and global security.
Coleman joined Disney in 2008 as VP, Human Resources, Disney Consumer Products, a position she held for eight years. At Disney Entertainment, she led Human Resources for ABC Entertainment, ABC News, ABC Television Stations, Disney Branded Television, Disney Television Studios (20th Television, ABC Signature, 20th Television Animation, Walt Disney Television Alternative), Freeform, FX, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content and Onyx Collective.
“Sonia is valued throughout the organization as a gifted leader and a strong advocate for our people,” Iger said. “Her proven expertise in leading human resources for our general entertainment business and ESPN during a time of unprecedented transformation makes her the perfect choice to lead this function across the company as we implement our new operating structure and position Disney to advance capitalize on opportunities. “
Iger thanked Richardson for his years of service and contributions to numerous initiatives, including Disney’s Heroes Work Here veteran recruitment program.
“It is truly an honor to be chosen in this role, and I am grateful for the trust that Bob has placed in me,” said Coleman. “Disney is unmatched for the talent, dedication and enthusiasm of our cast and staff. They are key to our success and I look forward to being their biggest advocate … as we move through the major company-wide transformation underway that will truly empower the people behind the Disney magic.”
Disney has been undergoing a major restructuring since Iger returned to the helm in November. Last month, he announced plans to cut 7,000 jobs and $5.5 billion in costs.
Source: Deadline
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