Disney+ Executive Makes Leap to The Economist

Luke Bradley-Jones, the driving force behind the successful launch of Disney’s streaming platform in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), is embarking on a new journey with The Economist. Joining the UK-based magazine this summer, Bradley-Jones is poised to accelerate The Economist’s transition into a digital-first global entity.

As the senior vice president and general manager of Disney+ EMEA since January 2020, Bradley-Jones played a pivotal role in introducing Disney’s flagship streaming service to diverse markets across the region. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of content distribution and consumer engagement in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

While Bradley-Jones will continue to oversee Disney+ operations until this summer, Jan Koeppen, president of The Walt Disney Co. for EMEA, will assume responsibility for the streaming platform in key global markets. Reflecting on his tenure at Disney+, Bradley-Jones expressed gratitude for the opportunity to spearhead its growth and expansion, citing the exceptional talent and dedicated teams that contributed to its success.

The launch of Disney+ in Europe marked a strategic shift for the entertainment giant, with a focus on localized content to resonate with diverse audiences. Collaborations with renowned creators and producers such as Juliette Howell, Stephen Butchard, Quoc Dang Tran, and Jörg Winger underscored Disney’s commitment to catering to regional preferences while maintaining its global appeal.

Commenting on Bradley-Jones’s departure, Koeppen acknowledged his invaluable contributions and wished him success in his new role at The Economist, emphasizing his passion for the publication’s mission.

In light of Bradley-Jones’s transition, Disney has initiated a recruitment search for a new executive to lead streaming efforts in the EMEA region, signaling its commitment to sustaining momentum and innovation in the ever-evolving streaming landscape.