Disney Extends Contract of Top Lawyer Horacio Gutierrez, Elevates Title

Orange County, CA – The Walt Disney Company’s top lawyer, Horacio Gutierrez, has agreed to extend his tenure with the company. Gutierrez, who has held the positions of senior executive vice president, general counsel, and chief compliance officer since February 2022, recently signed an amended employment agreement. According to a recent Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing, the agreement has been extended until December 31, 2026. However, the original expiration date remains undisclosed.

Under the amended agreement, Gutierrez will assume the title of senior executive vice president, chief legal and compliance officer. He will continue to report directly to the company’s CEO, Bob Iger. This change reflects the ongoing significance of Gutierrez’s role in ensuring legal and regulatory compliance within the organization.

Prior to joining Disney, Gutierrez held key positions at Spotify, including head of global affairs and chief legal officer. He took over the role of Disney’s general counsel from Alan Braverman, who retired after serving the company for nearly two decades. Gutierrez’s extensive experience in the music-streaming industry and his previous tenure at Microsoft as corporate vice president and general counsel have equipped him with valuable insights and expertise.

During his time at Spotify, Gutierrez led a team of professionals responsible for various crucial aspects of the company’s operations. This included industry relations, content partnerships, public policy, trust and safety, and corporate communications and public affairs, among others. Prior to his tenure at Spotify, Gutierrez held multiple roles at Microsoft, gaining extensive knowledge in areas such as intellectual property, licensing, and products and services.

Gutierrez’s decision to extend his time with the Walt Disney Company highlights his commitment to the organization and its future endeavors. With his expertise in legal matters and compliance, Gutierrez will play a crucial role in shaping Disney’s strategic direction and ensuring the company operates within legal boundaries.

In summary, Horacio Gutierrez, Disney’s top lawyer, has extended his employment agreement with the company until December 31, 2026. As part of the extension, Gutierrez’s title has been changed to senior executive vice president, chief legal and compliance officer. This further emphasizes his significant role in overseeing the company’s legal affairs. Gutierrez’s vast professional experience in the music-streaming and technology industries positions him well to lead Disney’s legal and compliance efforts moving forward.