Insights from Head of Coaching

It’s certainly impressive to rise to the level of global CEO. But, to do so twice? That puts an individual among an elite set. This group of leaders, which includes Steve Jobs, Howard Schultz and Michael Dell, also extends beyond technology into entertainment, to encompass Disney’s Bob Iger, CEO from 2005-2020, and once again, unexpectedly, from November 2022 onward (presumably until his intended retirement at the end of 2026).
 

In the Forbes article below, Iger’s ostensible focus on fitness reflects a broader mandate for not only physical fitness, but also intellectual, emotional and psychological fitness, required to lead a team of 225,000 globally, with a presence in 130+ countries. One benefit of building such fitness is a high energy level, demonstrated by the fact that Iger, per Business Insider, “…is known for leading Disney through a period of growth and acquisition, including the acquisition of Pixar, Marvel and Lucasfilm.” Described by Wikipedia as a “visionary media executive,” Iger has extended Disney’s reach within film and animation studios, into global resorts (including Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disney Resort) and various other types of intellectual properties.
 

Iger’s demanding roles these days contrast with his relaxed Long Island, New York upbringing, along with his college years further upstate. Still, there were hints of Iger’s eventual evolution into the entertainment space in his formative adult years, evidenced through his graduating with high honors from the Ithaca College School of Communications, with a B.S. In Television and Radio. Iger’s career-launching event, like his second foray as CEO, occurred unexpectedly, at the 1988 Calgary Olympics, while creatively filling a light broadcast schedule with human interest stories that achieved record ratings for ABC, through he was then employed. Such experiences highlight Iger’s appetite for innovation and risk-taking, epitomized by quotes including: “Innovate or die, and there’s no innovation if you operate out of fear of the new or untested. Don’t be in the business of playing it safe. Be in the business of creating possibilities for greatness.”
 

Yet, like many successful global leaders, Iger fortunately isn’t insensitive to a human need for validation and encouragement. According to the Institute for Mergers, Acquisitions and Alliances, “Iger’s leadership is built on a foundation of integrity and empowerment. He underst[ands] the value of treating people with respect and valuing their contributions. His emphasis on integrity in leadership extend[s] to his team at Disney.”  As an inspirational executive a bit reminiscent of the late Walt Disney himself, Iger affirmd Walt’s belief that “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”

The time to start is now – Buzz Lightyear wasn’t born overnight, right?
 

Best,
 

Amy-Louise