The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors has a new nomination, with former Apple executive Jeff Williams to stand for election as an independent director at the company’s 2026 annual shareholders meeting. If approved, the board will increase from 10 to 11 members.
Williams retired earlier this year after a long career at Apple Inc., where he became Chief Operating Officer in 2015. In that role he oversaw Apple’s design team, global supply chain, service and support operations. Among his notable achievements was leading the development and launch of the Apple Watch and shaping Apple’s health and fitness strategy.
The Walt Disney Company Board Chairman, James P. Gorman, praised Williams, noting his mix of experience in technology, global operations, and product design which enables him to bring a valuable perspective as Disney continues to focus on creative storytelling and innovation:
“Jeff Williams is a highly accomplished executive who for decades helped steward one of the most innovative and admired companies that serves billions of consumers across the globe.”
“Jeff’s proven leadership and unique experience at the intersection of technology, global operations and product design make him a valuable nominee to our board as the company continues to focus on creative storytelling and groundbreaking innovation.”
Williams himself said he has long admired Disney’s legacy of pairing imagination with innovation and welcomes the opportunity to contribute to its future:
“I have long admired Disney’s legacy of pairing imagination with innovation—leveraging new technologies in bold, creative ways to bring to life timeless stories and entertain its guests.”
“It is an honor to be nominated to the board of this storied company. I look forward to working with Disney’s talented leadership team and contributing to the company’s ongoing journey of creativity and excellence.”
Shareholders will vote on Williams’ election along with the re-election of the current directors at the next annual meeting.
