Disney parted ways with its most senior communications and government relations executive on Friday after a tumultuous two-month period in which Disney became a political punching bag.
The company said that the chief corporate affairs officer, who joined in January, will leave immediately.
Even though Zenia Mucha ran what was widely considered a best-in-class operation, Mr. Morrell was outspoken about a need to "modernize" Disney's approach to communications. He spent most of his time at Disney in a P.R. nightmare after Disney declined to take a public stand on Florida school legislation that restricts classroom discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity. The company is the largest private employer in the state.
With Disney employees in open revolt over the company's public silence, Bob Chapek, Disney's chief executive, then aggressively denounced the bill, only to find himself in the cross hairs of Fox News hosts.
The law that allowed Disney World to function as its own quasi government was revoked last week.
There is no shortage of talent to guide our reputation-driving functions because of the strength and experience of our existing leadership team.
After three months in this new role, it has become clear to me that for a number of reasons.
Mr. Morrell had a new position at Disney. The functions that were combined were communications, public policy, government relations, corporate social responsibility and environmental issues. Mr. Chapek said in his email that he wouldn't replace Mr. Morrell. Disney's top communications executive will be Kristina Schake. She was hired by Mr. Morrell and will now report to him. Ms. Schake has served in the Obama and Biden administrations, as well as leadership positions atInstagram.
She has a strategic approach and collaborative style, as well as relentless optimism and a strong appreciation of our brand and its place in the world.
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