The Walt Disney Company will cut roughly 1,000 jobs across its global operations as newly appointed CEO Josh D'Amaro moves to streamline the company and centralize its marketing functions, marking one of the first major restructuring efforts under his leadership.
In a company-wide memo sent Tuesday, D'Amaro told employees the layoffs are part of a broader push to create a more flexible organization capable of adapting to rapid industry shifts. The cuts are expected to impact multiple divisions, including studios, television, ESPN, product and technology, and corporate functions.
"Over the past several months, we have looked at ways in which we can streamline our operations in various parts of the company to ensure we deliver the world-class creativity and innovation our fans value and expect from Disney," D'Amaro wrote in the memo.
He added that the restructuring is tied to the company's evolving strategic priorities. "Given the fast-moving pace of our industries, this requires us to constantly assess how to foster a more agile and technologically-enabled workforce to meet tomorrow's needs."
The layoffs come just weeks after D'Amaro assumed the top role, following his tenure overseeing Disney's Experiences division. His early moves suggest a focus on operational efficiency and structural consolidation, particularly in marketing, which is being unified under Asad Ayaz.
Employees affected by the cuts have already begun receiving notifications. D'Amaro emphasized that the decision was not performance-related, stating, "These decisions are not a reflection of their contributions, or of the overall strength of the company." He added, "Rather, they reflect our continual evaluation of how to more effectively manage our resources and reinvest in our businesses."
The latest reductions add to a broader pattern of workforce contraction at Disney, which has eliminated more than 8,000 positions since 2023. The company reported a workforce of approximately 231,000 employees at the end of its last fiscal year, including part-time theme park staff.
D'Amaro acknowledged the uncertainty created by the changes. "We have experienced a great deal of change these last few years, both at the company and across our industries," he wrote. "Knowing firsthand how these moments can bring uncertainty, I want to be open about some difficult news that will be communicated this week."
He sought to reassure employees about the company's approach to the transition, adding, "Compassion and respect remain at the heart of our company," and noting that Disney would provide "resources, guidance, and direct support" to those affected.
