Eisner Congratulates Iger And Chapek
Michael Eisner seems to enjoy being the “elder Mouse-man”
Over the last few months, the former CEO enjoyed a bit of a Renaissance (of his reputation) thanks to the inclusion of his collaboration with Imagineering in Disney Plus’ “The Imagineering Story.”
And today, much like a former POTUS to a new POTUS, Eisner both welcomed Bob Chapek to the role he once held and congratulated Bob Iger for his amazing run at the helm of The Walt Disney Company.
Eisner Congratulates Iger & Chapek
The former Disney CEO posted:
Bob Chapek becomes the new CEO of #Disney reporting to @RobertIger through the end Iger’s contract. Bob has vast experience over multiple leadership roles at Disney. Congratulations Bob Chapek!
— Michael Eisner (@Michael_Eisner) February 25, 2020
A Mutual Admiration Society
Back in 2006, when the Disney Board honored Eisner by naming the Team Disney building in his honor, Iger said:
When Michael first stepped foot on the Disney lot two decades ago, he inherited a company with four theme parks, and a studio that was last place in the box office and didn’t have one show on network television… Thanks to his great leadership and creativity, the Disney of today has grown exponentially, earning us the undisputed reputation for being the world’s leader in quality family entertainment, which is why dedicating this remarkable building in Michael’s honor is such a fitting tribute to the fantastic contributions he made to the Disney legacy.”
And of his former boss, Chapek said:
Photo: Masterclass
Bob Iger has built Disney into the most admired and successful media and entertainment company, and I have been lucky to enjoy a front-row seat as a member of his leadership team. I share his commitment to creative excellence, technological innovation and international expansion, and I will continue to embrace these same strategic pillars going forward. Everything we have achieved thus far serves as a solid foundation for further creative storytelling, bold innovation and thoughtful risk-taking.”
Bob will be the seventh CEO in Disney’s nearly 100-year history, and he has proven himself exceptionally qualified to lead the Company into its next century. Throughout his career, Bob has led with integrity and conviction, always respecting Disney’s rich legacy while at the same time taking smart, innovative risks for the future. His success over the past 27 years reflects his visionary leadership and the strong business growth and stellar results he has consistently achieved in his roles at Parks, Consumer Products and the Studio. Under Bob’s leadership as CEO, our portfolio of great businesses and our amazing and talented people will continue to serve the Company and its shareholders well for years to come.”
Big Shoes To Fill
Despite the praise passed around today, only Iger and Eisner truly understand how difficult it can be to wear the ears.
One hopes that in 15 years, Mr. Chapek is able to pass on similar kudos to the person who takes over as CEO, looking back at a tenure as successful as Eisner and Iger.
