In a strategic move to shape the future of the iconic Disney brand, Asad Ayaz, an 18-year veteran of the entertainment powerhouse, has assumed the role of Chief Brand Officer. This newly created position places Ayaz at the helm of global brand management, overseeing every facet of the Walt Disney Company's touchpoints and customer interactions. Reporting directly to CEO Robert Iger, Ayaz is entrusted with the task of orchestrating holistic brand marketing campaigns that leverage Disney's extensive content portfolio and consumer experiences.
With a career steeped in successful marketing endeavors, he previously served as President of Marketing for Walt Disney Studios and Disney+. During his tenure, he masterminded campaigns for some of the highest-grossing films in cinematic history, including "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," "Black Panther," and "Avatar: The Way of Water." Additionally, Ayaz spearheaded marketing efforts for Disney's live-action hits like "Aladdin'' and "The Lion King," as well as animated gems such as "Frozen 2" and "Encanto."
Ayaz's influence extends beyond the silver screen, as he played an instrumental role in promoting Disney's streaming platforms. He led campaigns for flagship series like "The Mandalorian," "WandaVision," and "Loki," contributing to the skyrocketing success of Disney+.
As Chief Brand Officer, his purview encompasses not only external brand activation but also internal alignment and corporate synergy. His mandate includes the development of global consumer research and analytics aimed at enhancing personalization and dynamicity across Disney's brands and franchises. Moreover, he will guide the digital and social media presence of the company, forging partnerships that amplify the Disney experience.
In celebration of Disney's centenary, Ayaz spearheaded the Disney100 campaign, leaving an indelible mark on the company's storied history. His creative prowess has been recognized with industry accolades, including Variety's Marketing Visionaries Award and the Clio Marketing Mastermind Award. Forbes and Fast Company have lauded him as one of the most influential Chief Marketing Officers and creative minds in the business landscape.
With this new role, Ayaz steps into a pivotal position at a momentous juncture in Disney's history. His deep understanding of the brand's cultural significance, coupled with his strategic acumen, positions him as a guardian of Disney's legacy. As he aptly puts it, "I've marveled at Disney's storytelling, experiences, and simply the name itself to inspire people and resonate through generations." Under his leadership, Disney is poised to continue creating meaningful connections with audiences for generations to come.