The Walt Disney Company announced today A new operating model for its entertainment and sports businesses in Latin America, Which includes a change in leadership, with the appointment of Argentine Martin Iraola to head the operation.
Under the new structure, which mirrors the model the company implemented in Europe earlier this year, Disney’s sports and entertainment operations in Latin America — including all of its streaming platforms, theatrical distribution, content production, sports, marketing, ad sales and entertainment network divisions — will report directly to the global leaders of its respective businesses, headquartered in the United States.
The company explained in a statement: “The Regional President in Latin America will continue to be Disney’s representative in the region, and will be responsible for unifying strategic priorities and financial results, coordinating teams at the regional level and leading local initiatives that include all businesses (with the exception of Disney Experiences). The company explained in a statement that the Regional President will also oversee human resources, communications and financial functions.”
In addition, Disney announced Diego Lerner named President Emeritus of The Walt Disney Company Latin America “In recognition of his invaluable contribution to the company over the years.” For her part, Iraola, who led the Latin America region on an interim basis, will assume the role of president of The Walt Disney Company in Latin America.
Iraola will report to Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, co-chairmen of Disney Entertainment, and Jimmy Pitaro, chairman of ESPN.
“Latin America plays a vital role in Disney’s global success. It is a dynamic region with tremendous growth opportunities, and this new unified structure will drive Disney’s business and improve our ability to deliver the best entertainment and sports to consumers around the world,” said Bergman, Walden and Pitaro. “We are fortunate to have exceptional leadership in the market. Martin’s deep knowledge of the market, audience and industry will bring a fresh and innovative perspective to Latin America and will help us continue to accelerate our global growth.
“I am honored to lead a senior team, alongside our global leaders, and to take advantage of the opportunities the region has to offer,” said Iraola. “Having been part of the team that laid the foundation for Disney’s growth in Latin America, I am honored to continue expanding Disney’s reach, telling impactful stories and creating lasting emotional connections.”
The Walt Disney Company Latin America is the leading family entertainment company in Latin America, responsible for the Disney, Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, ESPN, National Geographic, HULU and other brands, all operating in the region. In the region, the company has offices in Argentina (where the Latin American headquarters are located), Brazil, Mexico and the United States (Miami).
Business in Latin America is organized into three large branches: Indoor, outdoor and retail. From the home section All initiatives are handled “direct-to-consumer”, including Disney+ and online channels. Disney+ includes content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, ESPN and Hulu, live sports from ESPN and popular shows like SportsCenter, which turns 25 in 2025.
For its part, the “Out of Home” section collects shows intended for consumption outside the home, such as live performances, music performances and films.
Finally, Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is a division of Disney Experiences, responsible for brands and product franchises – from toys to t-shirts, apps, books, video games and more.