Disney’s Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Vice President Latondra Newton is stepping down from her position after more than six years, according to an internal memo obtained by Variety.
A person with knowledge of the situation says that Newton will soon join the board of directors of another company and plans to devote more time to her own creative business.
In her role as chief of DEI operations at Disney, Newton was tasked with overseeing the company’s “commitment to producing entertainment that reflects global audiences and supports a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.”
Upon her departure, Newton’s direct reports will report to Julie Merges on an interim basis until a new Chief Diversity Officer is appointed. Shelby Curry and DEI’s internal communications team will continue to report to internal communications and engagement manager Carrie Brown.
Previously, Newton was Group Vice President of Social Innovation and Chief Diversity Officer at Toyota Motor North America, Inc. and Chief Program Officer at Toyota Mobility Foundation, Toyota Motor Corporation. She started her career at Toyota in 1991.
Newton’s departure from Disney comes less than a week after CEO Bob Iger announced that CFO Christine McCarthy decided to step down from her role.
See Disney HR chief Sonia Coleman’s message to staff announcing Newton’s departure below.
To our extended DEI and HR team,
I am writing to share the news that Latondra Newton has decided to leave The Walt Disney Company to pursue other matters.
Since joining the company in 2017, Latondra has led the company’s strategic diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, including working with stakeholders across the company to amplify people’s stories around the world. She is committed to ensuring that everyone sees themselves and their life experiences in a meaningful and authentic way.
I know you all join me in thanking Latondra for her many contributions, including the lasting impact she has had on our employees and our culture. Along with you and so many others, she has inspired countless cast members and collaborators to make lasting change and help create a world where we can all feel safe and belong.
Latondra’s direct reports will report to Julie Merges on an interim basis until a new DEI leader is identified. I want to thank Julie for leading this team along with her Talent Acquisition organization. In addition, Shelby Curry and the DEI Internal Communications team will continue to report to Carrie Brown in her role as responsible for the company’s internal communications and engagement.
Thank you all for your continued contributions to our DEI efforts. I know we can count on you to continue this important work during these leadership changes.
Satisfying,
Sonia