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The Walt Disney Company has appointed Karandeep Anand as its first chief technology officer, as the entertainment giant moves to strengthen its technology operations amid rapid developments in artificial intelligence and changes across the media industry.
Disney announced the appointment on September 18, 2026, naming Anand, an experienced technology executive who previously served as president and chief operating officer of Character.
AI. He is expected to take up his new position on October 19.
Anand will report directly to Disney Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger and will be responsible for overseeing the company’s technology strategy. His responsibilities will include areas such as artificial intelligence, data infrastructure and other technology systems supporting Disney’s global operations.
The appointment comes as traditional media companies increasingly invest in technology to improve how they create, distribute and personalise entertainment content. AI has also become a major area of development across film, television, streaming and digital media, creating both new opportunities and challenges for established entertainment companies.
Before joining Disney, Anand held senior positions in the technology industry. At Character.
AI, he was involved in the development and operation of the artificial-intelligence platform. His earlier career included leadership roles at Microsoft, where he spent more than two decades working across cloud computing, artificial intelligence and enterprise technology.
Disney said Anand’s experience will help the company build on its existing technology capabilities while supporting future innovation across the organisation.
The appointment also reflects the growing importance of technology leadership within major entertainment companies. Disney operates a wide range of businesses spanning film studios, television networks, streaming services, theme parks and consumer products, all of which depend increasingly on digital systems and technology.
Anand’s arrival comes at a time when AI is rapidly changing the technology and media industries. Companies are exploring AI for content development, customer experiences, data analysis, automation and other applications, while also dealing with questions surrounding responsible use and intellectual property.
With Anand becoming Disney’s first chief technology officer, the company is creating a senior executive role specifically focused on coordinating its technology direction as it continues adapting to an increasingly digital and AI-driven media environment.
