Disney to Cut Approximately 1,000 Jobs in Marketing Shake-Up

The Walt Disney Company is set to lay off roughly 1,000 employees in the upcoming weeks, with a significant number of these cuts expected in its marketing sector, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the situation.

This workforce reduction is anticipated to affect less than 1% of Disney’s overall global staff, which numbered around 231,000 at the conclusion of fiscal year 2025.

Preparations for the layoffs reportedly began prior to Josh D'Amaro assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer in March, suggesting the restructuring plan has been in the works for a considerable period.

Disney's newly appointed Chief Marketing Officer, Asad Ayaz, is spearheading efforts to unify the company’s marketing functions. This initiative, known internally as “Project Imagine,” is designed to streamline operations and decrease costs.

Since January, Ayaz has been overseeing the formation of a comprehensive marketing organization, indicating a move towards a more cohesive and efficient marketing strategy.

While Reuters has not been able to independently verify this report, Disney has yet to make any comments outside of regular business hours regarding the layoffs.

This decision aligns with broader cost-control strategies being implemented across the media and entertainment sectors as companies adjust to changing market conditions and evolving consumer demands.