Longtime YouTube executive Adam Smith joins Disney in key tech role

As a seasoned movie enthusiast with a penchant for understanding the intricacies of technology and entertainment, I am genuinely excited about Adam Smith joining Disney as their chief product and technology officer. Having spent over two decades at YouTube and Google, his vast experience in leading global teams and implementing ambitious tech projects will undoubtedly elevate the Disney experience to new heights.

Veteran executive Adam Smith, who has spent years at YouTube and Google, is set to join The Walt Disney Company. In his new role as Chief Product and Technology Officer for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, he will aim to enhance the technological experiences that Disney customers receive. This move suggests Disney’s dedication to improving customer technology interactions.

Smith will oversee the planning, creation, and advancement of technology within Disney’s streaming services and networks, their advertising technology, as well as “digital interactions with consumers.” This includes various facets, as stated by Disney on Thursday.

“Disney Entertainment Co-Chairs Alan Bergman, Dana Walden, and ESPN Chair Jimmy Pitaro expressed great excitement about Adam joining the Disney team for a crucial position. They praised his innovative approach towards the future, emphasizing his consumer-driven vision and proven talent in leading international teams to execute large-scale, adaptable products and technology that will further enhance storytelling at the heart of the Disney experience.”

Beginning September 3rd, Smith commences his new position and will be overseen by Bergman, Walden, and Pitaro, as stated by the company. He is taking over from Disney veteran Aaron LaBerge, who has departed the company to work for Penn Entertainment, a casino and sports-betting firm, following 20 years of service.

Smith has spent over 20 years working with both YouTube and Google. As of 2016, his role within YouTube was the vice president of product management, where he managed the company’s music, premium, subscription, and commerce initiatives. During his time at Google, he spearheaded the development and strategy for projects like Google Fiber, and supervised a portfolio that encompassed Google News, Google Books, and Google Scholar.

Disney recently brought on board a new hire, a move that signifies progress in their streaming sector. For quite some time, the combined streaming business encompassing Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ had been operating at a loss, racking up bills worth billions over the years. However, during the third fiscal quarter, this business finally managed to turn a profit for the first time.

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2024-08-15 22:31