Disney names CTO for the first time as media giant expands tech push

Disney has hired a chief technology officer, a newly minted role for the company, as it looks to further its embrace of tech under CEO Josh D'Amaro.

Disney names CTO for the first time as media giant expands tech push

TL;DR

  • Disney hired Karandeep Anand as senior executive vice president and chief technology officer, a new role reporting to CEO Josh D’Amaro.
  • Anand will oversee enterprise technology, infrastructure, data, AI platforms, product, and engineering, aiming to modernize Disney's technology development.
  • This hire aligns with D’Amaro's strategy to embrace technology for growth, particularly in streaming and parks.
  • Disney is also exploring an ad-supported tier for Disney+ and integrating streaming with shopping, consumer products, parks, and cruises.
  • Anand previously led Character.AI, focusing on user engagement and safety, and has experience at Meta and Brex.
  • Disney previously sent a cease and desist letter to Character.AI regarding unauthorized use of its characters.