ORLANDO, Fla. — As it faces criticism from conservatives of its politics and content, the Walt Disney Company has appointed Asad Ayaz, a marketing and publicity veteran of Disney’s film and TV series division, as its first chief brand officer.
Disney’s creation of the role comes as it encounters increased scrutiny in its ongoing feud with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis over the so-called “don’t say gay” law last year, which led to the state dissolving the Reedy Creek Improvement District, and as conservative groups declare Disney’s political stances and entertainment content too “woke.”
Ayaz currently serves as marketing president for The Walt Disney Studios, overseeing publicity for Disney’s films and streaming content on Disney+, and will continue in that role along with his new position.
