The executive has been named Chairman of Direct-to-Consumer at Disney Entertainment, overseeing the global strategy for Disney+ and Hulu, as well as product, technology, advertising, programming, partnerships and data analytics.
The Walt Disney Company is reshaping the leadership of its streaming business. Adam Smith has been named Chairman of Direct-to-Consumer at Disney Entertainment, a role in which he will oversee the company’s global direct-to-consumer entertainment business.
Smith will lead the strategy, development and innovation of Disney’s streaming platforms, including Disney+ and Hulu. His responsibilities will span product, engineering, advertising technology, programming strategy, user experience, partnerships and data analytics.
The move brings several key areas of Disney’s streaming operation under a single executive leadership structure as the company continues to integrate its platforms and strengthen Disney+ as a central destination within its broader entertainment ecosystem.
“Disney has the best storytellers and the most passionate fandom in the world. I couldn’t be prouder of what this team has built together,” Smith said. “We have real momentum, and our vision is clear: to make Disney+ the connection point for fans around the world to engage with the breadth and depth of the Disney ecosystem.”
Smith joined Disney in 2024 and most recently served as Co-President of Direct-to-Consumer and Chief Product & Technology Officer for Disney Entertainment and ESPN. Before joining Disney, he spent more than two decades at Google and YouTube, holding a range of senior leadership positions.
Joe Earley takes on a new strategic role
The leadership changes also include a new position for Joe Earley, who has been named President, Disney Entertainment Television Franchise and Content Strategy.
In the new role, Earley will oversee the strategic development of Disney Entertainment Television franchises, focusing on maximizing their value and creating new opportunities to engage audiences and expand the business.
His responsibilities will include international originals and production, labor relations and creative talent development.
Earley joined Disney in 2019 to lead marketing and operations for Disney+ ahead of its launch. In 2022, he was named president of Hulu and later became Co-President of Direct-to-Consumer and head of content strategy.
The appointments are part of Disney’s broader restructuring of its entertainment operations, designed to bring its streaming, film, television and gaming assets together under Disney Entertainment and strengthen the connections between its franchises, content and platforms.
