Director, Strategic Operations

The Office of Technology Enablement is a strategic organization designed to establish Disney as a progressive, innovative, and responsible leader in important and fast-moving areas of technology such as artificial intelligence and mixed reality. The organization coordinates efforts in AI/ML and mixed reality across each of the Walt Disney Company’s business segments to enable value and drive business outcomes.

The Director, Strategic Operations will lead and oversee the strategic development and execution of a comprehensive promotions strategy to drive awareness and support for [New Co], emerging technologies, and Disney’s strategic AI / XR initiatives. This executive role is pivotal in advancing the company’s position as an industry leader in technological innovation, shaping the future of entertainment through strategic communications, education, and marketing initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and drive the overarching vision and strategy for promoting [New Co], emerging technologies, and Disney’s strategic AI / XR initiatives across the organization and industry.

• Establish and maintain high-level partnerships with technology leaders, startups, and academic institutions to inform and influence Disney’s strategic direction in XR and AI.

• Lead the development of Disney-wide education programs on XR and AI capabilities, overseeing the creation of executive-level presentations, strategic workshops, and immersive product demonstrations.

• Direct the creation and implementation of a comprehensive learning strategy, collaborating with C-suite executives to align educational content and marketing initiatives with Disney’s long-term vision.

• Spearhead cross-functional collaboration at the highest levels, aligning communication and education efforts across multiple departments and external partners.

• Define and oversee key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact of strategic plans, reporting directly to the Executive Leadership Team.

• Lead and execute high-priority strategic projects as directed by the Executive Leadership Team, ensuring alignment with business objectives and driving organizational transformation.

• Build and lead a high-performing team of managers and individual contributors, fostering a culture of innovation, inclusion, and excellence.

• Shape the organization's culture and operations by championing key strategic and employee initiatives that prioritize inclusion, belonging, and a thriving work environment.

Basic Qualifications:

• 6+ years or sufficient years of experience leading project and program mgt, product marketing, communications, or related field within technology-first organizations, preferably within the XR, AI, or entertainment industries.

• Proven track record of successfully driving the adoption of emerging technologies across large, complex organizations.

• Understanding of XR technologies (AR, VR, MR) and their applications in entertainment, media, and consumer experiences.

• Understanding of AI/ML principles, including computer vision, natural language processing, and generative AI models.

• Visionary: Ability to develop and articulate a compelling long-term vision for the integration of emerging technologies.

• Executive presence: Exceptional ability to influence and collaborate with C-suite executives and board members.

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to see the big picture and think strategically about the integration and impact of XR and AI technologies.

• Problem Solving: Strong ability to identify root causes of challenges and design effective solutions.

• Collaboration: Ability to effectively collaborate with multiple departments and external partners while maintaining tact and diplomacy.

• Resilience: Ability to navigate ambiguity and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

• Exceptional interpersonal skills, professional demeanor, and the ability to handle uncertainties and ambiguity in a fast-paced environment.

• Leadership: Proven ability to lead teams and influence stakeholders at all levels.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and public speaking skills with the ability to simplify complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.

• Strong project and program management skills, with a proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage organizational change at scale.

• Expert in Keynote, PPT, Adobe, and Microsoft Suites

• Superior analytical skills, business acumen, and financial skills, with the ability to provide actionable insights.

• Passion for Disney's brand storytelling and creating innovative immersive experiences.

• High level of integrity and discretion, with the ability to operate independently with minimal supervision.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree – Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Information Sciences, Business, Media, or related degree preferred.

• MBA -preferred.

The hiring range for this position in Burbank, CA is $182,700 to $245,000 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.