Disney Technology Executive Leaves Company for Personal Reasons

Aaron LaBerge, the chief technology officer for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, is leaving the company.

LaBerge is reportedly exiting the role for reasons related to his family. He will stay at Disney until June 2024. Following that, he will move to PENN Entertainment and work as the company’s CTO. PENN Entertainment operates ESPN Bet.

The Wrap shared the internal memo LaBerge shared with staff. “This was a personal decision, driven by the needs of my family,” he explained.

LaBerge continued, “I’m working with Alan, Dana and Jimmy to plan a smooth transition, and I’ll be here until the end of June to help ensure a seamless handoff that positions everyone for continued success. I’ve never been more confident in our team and leadership. Together, we’ll navigate this change without missing a beat, continuing to build on the significant progress we’ve made over the past 15 months.

Disney’s top technology officer, who has spearheaded much of the company’s recent efforts on streaming, is leaving the company. https://t.co/liaoVdAt77

— The Hill (@thehill) April 22, 2024

LaBerge explained that Disney was much more than just a place to work. “It’s been my home, my inspiration, and a part of the most rewarding chapters of my life, both personally and professionally.”

During his time at Disney, LaBerge helped develop Disney’s streaming services. He was also one of the driving forces in adding advertising to the company’s Disney+ streaming service and was part of the merger of Hulu and Disney+.

ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro and Disney Entertainment co-chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman shared their thoughts on LaBerge’s departure in an internal employee memo obtained by CNBC. They thanked LaBerge for his contributions at Disney for over 20 years. They called it a “silver lining” that he would continue to help Disney and ESPN “win” as he transitions into his new role at ESPN Bet.

According to the memo, Chris Lawson, EVP of content platforms and operations at Disney Entertainment and ESPN, will serve as the interim tech executive in LaBerge’s absence. At the same time, the company is looking for a permanent replacement for the position.