Aaron LaBerge, chief technology officer of Disney Entertainment and ESPN, is leaving the company.
LaBerge is reportedly stepping down from the role due to family reasons. He will remain at Disney until June 2024, after which he will move to PENN Entertainment and serve as the company's CTO. PENN Entertainment operates his ESPN Bet.
The Wrap shared an internal memo that LaBarge shared with staff. “This was a personal decision based on my family's needs,” he explained.
Mr. Laberge continued, “I have worked with Alan, Dana and Jimmy to plan a smooth transition and will be here through the end of June to ensure a seamless handover for continued success for everyone.” I have never been more confident in our team and our leadership. Together, we will navigate this transition without missing a beat and build on the significant progress we have made over the past 15 months.
Disney's chief technology officer, who has led many of the company's recent streaming efforts, is leaving the company. https://t.co/liaoVdAt77
— The Hill (@thehill) April 22, 2024
LaBarge explained that Disney is more than just a place to work. “This has been my home, my inspiration, and some of the most rewarding times of my life, both personally and professionally.”
During his time at Disney, LaBarge helped develop Disney's streaming service. He was also one of the architects behind adding advertising to the company's Disney+ streaming service, and he also participated in the Disney+ merger with Hulu.
ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro and Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Dana Walden and Alan Bergman shared their thoughts on LaBarge's departure in an internal employee memo obtained by CNBC. They thanked Mr. LaBarge for his contributions to Disney over more than 20 years. They called it a “sign of hope” that he will continue to help Disney and ESPN “win” as he transitions into his new role at ESPN Bet.
According to the memo, Chris Lawson, vice president of content platforms and operations for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, will serve as interim technology executive in LaBarge's absence. At the same time, the company is looking for a permanent replacement for this position.
