Disney/ABC TV Names Seymour EVP-CFO

Peter Seymour on Thursday was named to the newly created position of executive vice president and chief financial officer, Disney/ABC Television Group. He will report to Anne Sweeney, co-chair, media networks and president, Disney/ABC Television Group.

This appointment consolidates financial leadership for the entertainment portfolio encompassed by the Disney/ABC Television Group, including the ABC Television Network, ABC Studios, ABC Owned Station Group, Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior, Disney Domestic Television, ABC Family, Radio Disney and Hyperion Publishing.

In addition, Seymour will retain his oversight of strategy development for The Walt Disney Co.’s worldwide broadcasting and cable programming businesses, as well as his supervision of research, customer relationship management, media planning and franchise management.

In making the announcement, Sweeney said: “The consolidation of these important functions into one role allows us to streamline decision making and align our strategic goals to better serve the evolving needs of our group. Peter is a proven executive who has a keen understanding of our business and what is needed to continue our momentum and growth.”

Prior to this announcement, Seymour had been EVP of strategy and research for Disney Media Networks, since 2008. His strategy role encompasses strategy development for the Walt Disney Co.’s worldwide broadcasting and cable programming businesses. In addition he oversees research, customer relationship management, media planning and franchise management.

Since joining the group as a senior vice president in 2005 Seymour helped shape its overall strategy and the strategic direction of its individual businesses.

He partnered with ESPN to launch the Disney Media and Advertising Lab in Austin, which has completed well over 100 primary research studies using advanced technologies like facial coding, eye-gaze tracking and biometric monitoring.

Prior to joining Disney Media Networks, Seymour spent nine years in the strategic planning unit of the Walt Disney Co., where he oversaw corporate development and worked closely with the broadcasting, internet, video games and technology units of the company.

He joined Disney from The LEK/Alcar Consulting Group, where he managed strategy consulting projects in technology and media fields.

Seymour has a BA in economics and Asian languages and an MBA from Stanford University.