Robert Allen Iger is an American media business executive who served as CEO of The Walt Disney Company. He oversaw major acquisitions and expansions, increasing the company's market capitalization significantly.
Bob Iger, whose full name is Robert Allen Iger, was born on February 10, 1951.
In 1969, Bob Iger graduated from Oceanside High School after completing his education at Fulton Avenue School. This marked an important milestone in his early life.
In 1973, Bob Iger graduated from the Roy H. Park School of Communications with a Bachelor of Science degree in television and radio. This academic achievement laid the foundation for his future career in the media industry.
In 1974, Bob Iger started his media career at ABC after a referral from his uncle. He began working on sets for $150 a week and later became a studio supervisor, learning the ins and outs of television production.
In 1976, he transitioned to a job at ABC Sports where he found a mentor in Roone Arledge, the head of the network's sports division.
After 1977, Roone Arledge also took over as the head of ABC News, further influencing the career of Bob Iger.
By 1985, Bob Iger had risen through the ranks to become the Vice President of ABC Sports. This promotion showcased his leadership and management skills within the sports division.
In 1988, Bob Iger was appointed as the executive vice president of the ABC-TV Network, marking his transition from the sports division to the central corporate structure of the company.
In 1989, Bob Iger was named the President of ABC Entertainment, a significant role that highlighted his creative and strategic abilities in the entertainment sector.
By 1993, Bob Iger had further advanced in his career, taking on the role of Vice President of Capital Cities/ABC. This position solidified his influence and impact within the media conglomerate.
In 1994, Bob Iger reached the pinnacle of his career at Capital Cities/ABC by being appointed as the CEO. This marked a significant milestone in his professional journey.
On February 25, 1999, Bob Iger's professional journey shifted as he assumed the roles of CEO of ABC Group and Chairman of Walt Disney International.
On January 24, 2000, Bob Iger was promoted to the positions of President and Chief Operating Officer of The Walt Disney Company, marking a significant milestone in his career.
On March 13, 2005, Bob Iger was announced as the successor to Michael Eisner as the CEO of Disney.
Bob Iger and Steve Jobs collaborated to introduce the download of ABC and Disney Channel series on the iTunes platform in October 2005.
Bob Iger led The Walt Disney Company to acquire Pixar for 7.4 billion dollars in January 2006.
On October 7, 2011, Disney announced that Bob Iger would become chairman of the board.
In November 2011, Apple, Inc., under the leadership of CEO Tim Cook, appointed Bob Iger to its board of directors. Iger played a key role in making Steve Jobs Disney's largest shareholder after Disney's acquisition of Pixar.
In March 2012, Bob Iger assumed the role of Chairman of the Board at Disney, succeeding John E. Pepper Jr.
In October 2012, Disney acquired Lucasfilm for $4 billion, gaining control of the Star Wars franchise and further solidifying its position as a major player in the entertainment industry.
In 2014, Bob Iger was honored as CEO of the Year by Chief Executive magazine.
In 2015, Bob Iger was recognized for his contributions to the industry by being inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame.
Bob Iger aimed to open a second park in Asia, leading to the establishment of Shanghai Disney Resort on June 16, 2016.
On August 22, 2016, Bob Iger co-chaired a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign.
In November 2017, reports surfaced that Bob Iger was aware of inappropriate interactions by Pixar chief John Lasseter at a 2010 Oscar party.
Bob Iger's contract, which was initially set to expire on June 30, 2018, was extended until July 2, 2019.
Nelson Peltz informed Bob Iger that if he was not given a Board seat, he intended to mount a proxy fight challenging Iger's legacy.
After the Trian Group's presentation, the Disney board voted unanimously not to recommend Nelson Peltz for a Board seat, instead recommending the existing directors.
On 25 February 2020, Bob Iger announced his immediate resignation as CEO of Disney, with Bob Chapek taking over his position.
On December 31, 2021, Bob Iger officially stepped down as Disney's chairman. Susan Arnold succeeded him in this position.
On November 20, 2022, Bob Iger made a comeback to lead The Walt Disney Company for a two-year term.
Mr. Iger held a 'town hall' meeting with Disney employees where he outlined key priorities such as re-organizing the Company's creative businesses, driving profitability in streaming, and reducing costs across the Company.
Ms. Arnold and Mr. Gutierrez called Mr. Peltz to discuss finding a path for constructive engagement to avoid a proxy contest. They offered Mr. Peltz the opportunity to receive nonpublic information and meet with management and the Board quarterly.
On July 12, 2023, Bob Iger and Disney extended the contract until the end of 2026.