Director, Partnerships

Wherever you are in the amazing world of Disney, you are contributing to the stories of our iconic brands, recognized by audiences everywhere for entertainment, information and inspiration. Innovation, imagination and inclusion are at the core of Disney, defining the experience that we deliver as well as providing the foundation of our success. The scope of our business, combined with global growth and collaboration, results in an inclusive employee experience characterized by continuous learning, development and achievement.

The Director, DTC Partnership is a pivotal role responsible for driving strategic growth and innovation within the Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) business. This role will focus on developing and executing business strategies to enhance the DTC segment, renewing existing business, and forging new partnerships to drive growth. The Director will play a crucial role in ensuring that Disney enhances storytelling and creativity while delivering scalability, flexibility, and efficiency.

The scope of partnerships spans multiple verticals, including but not limited to telecommunications, utilities, pay TV, device manufacturers, corporate benefits programs, ride-hailing and food delivery, E-commerce, music, entertainment, news, airlines, hospitality and auto.

Key responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and lead the execution of the Japan DTC Partnerships strategy aligned with Disney+ vision and long-term goals.
• Partnership Development: Identify, structure, and close complex partnership deals that deliver measurable business value.
• Best Practices: Define and implement processes for identifying relevant partners and ensure effective deal execution across the region.
• Performance Management: Establish clear goals, track progress, provide timely feedback, and address performance issues promptly.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, develop, and retain a strong team. Provide coaching and guidance to maximize performance and professional growth.
• Brand Growth: Expand Disney+ reach and strengthen brand presence through innovative partnership models.
• Collaboration: Work closely with Account Management team and other LOBs to achieve business targets and support broader organizational objectives.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Foster strong relationships with various stakeholders to ensure alignment and collaboration.
• Culture Building: Promote an inclusive and innovative culture that values integrity, creativity and Collaboration.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Collaborate with Product & Tech, Content, Marketing, and other Disney teams to advance Japan DTC business.

Ideal experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in business development and partnerships, preferably in technology or media.
• Proven success as a strategic partnership's leader in D2C businesses, with deep understanding of Japan markets and a strong external network in media and entertainment.
• Significant senior leadership experience managing leaders in multi-functional environment.
• Expertise in high-stakes negotiations, including drafting and closing complex agreements.
• Strong balance of strategic and operational skills; ability to lead in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Collaborative leadership style with a focus on inclusion, talent development, and team performance.
• Adaptable, proactive, and results-driven with a strategic and agile mindset.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in multinational, highly matrixed organizations.
• Deep local market (Japan) experience and established relationships with senior business leaders.
• Consistent track record of exceeding targets.
• Fluency in Japanese; proficiency in English is a plus.

The Walt Disney Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to be a diverse and inclusive workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.