In a strategic move aimed at bolstering its financial leadership, Disney has announced the hiring of a seasoned executive from PepsiCo as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

This decision comes as Disney’s former CEO, Bob Iger, faces increasing pressure from activist investor Nelson Peltz’s hedge fund, which has been pushing for changes within the entertainment conglomerate.

The newly appointed CFO, Sarah Johnson, brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Vice President of Finance at PepsiCo, where she played a pivotal role in managing the company’s financial operations. Johnson’s expertise in finance and her proven track record in a global consumer goods giant like PepsiCo make her a valuable addition to Disney’s leadership team.

The move is seen as Disney’s response to the mounting challenges it faces, including a shifting media landscape, streaming wars, and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its theme park and entertainment businesses.

With Nelson Peltz’s hedge fund exerting pressure on Disney to enhance shareholder value, the appointment of Sarah Johnson as CFO is expected to signal a renewed focus on financial performance and strategic decision-making within the company.

As Disney navigates these complex waters, shareholders and industry observers are left wondering whether this new addition to the executive team will be enough to appease the hedge fund’s demands and secure the company’s future growth.