Disney is cutting approximately 1,000 jobs this week as part of a company-wide effort to streamline operations, CEO Josh D’Amaro announced in a memo to employees on Tuesday.
The layoffs primarily stem from the formation of a new, consolidated enterprise marketing division. This new structure falls under the leadership of Asad Ayaz, Disney's chief marketing and brand officer.
Impacted roles span several major departments, including Disney’s studios, TV networks, ESPN, product and technology, and various corporate groups, according to a source familiar with the situation.
Streamlining for agility
D’Amaro stated the unified marketing organization aims to serve consumers in a more connected way. He noted that the company must constantly evaluate how to maintain an agile and technologically-enabled workforce.
“Over the past several months, we have looked at ways in which we can streamline our operations in various parts of the company to ensure we deliver the world-class creativity and innovation our fans value and expect from Disney,” D’Amaro wrote.
The CEO addressed the difficulty of the decision, noting that the cuts do not reflect the performance of the departing staff. He characterized the move as a way to more effectively manage resources and reinvest in the company's future.
“I know this is hard,” D’Amaro wrote. “These decisions are not a reflection of their contributions, or of the overall strength of the company.”
This restructuring marks the first major workforce reduction under D’Amaro’s leadership. He assumed the CEO role on March 18, succeeding Bob Iger.
Disney reported a total workforce of approximately 231,000 full- and part-time employees at the end of its 2025 fiscal year. The company stated its priority is to support impacted employees with resources and guidance during the transition.
