Bob Iger Steps Downbr as CEO of Disney On Feb. 25, the Walt Disneybr Company Board of Directorsbr announced Bob Iger would bebr stepping down as Disney CEO. His role will be taken over by Bob Chapek,br who most recently served as Chairman ofbr Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. Iger, who was first named the CEO of Disneybr in 2005, will assume the role of Executive Chairmanbr until his contract ends in December 2021. As Executive Chairman, Iger will head the Board ofbr Directors and lead the company’s “creative endeavors,”br in order to ensure a “smooth and successful transition.” According to a statement, Iger’s decision to step downbr has been in the works for the “past several years.” Bob Iger,br via statement During a call with investors,br Iger also said he wantedbr more freedom to focus onbr the "creative side" of Disney. Bob Iger, viabr 'The Verge' Iger also praised Chapek, saying his record ofbr “visionary leadership” and “steller results,” makes himbr “exceptionally qualified” to take on the CEO position.