New Delhi [India], November 22 (ANI): The Walt Disney Company has announced that Robert A Iger is returning to lead Disney as Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect.

Iger, who spent more than four decades at the company, including 15 years as its CEO, has agreed to serve as Disney's CEO for two years, with a mandate from the Board to set the strategic direction for renewed growth and to work closely with the Board in developing a successor to lead the Company at the completion of his term, an official statement by Walt Disney Company said.

Iger has succeeded Bob Chapek, who stepped down from his position.

"We thank Bob Chapek for his service to Disney over his long career, including navigating the company through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic," Susan Arnold, Chairman of the Board, was quoted in the statement.

"The Board has concluded that as Disney embarks on an increasingly complex period of industry transformation, Bob Iger is uniquely situated to lead the Company through this pivotal period," Arnold said.

"Iger has the deep respect of Disney's senior leadership team, most of whom he worked closely with until his departure as executive chairman 11 months ago, and he is greatly admired by Disney employees worldwide--all of which will allow for a seamless transition of leadership," she said.

The position of Chairman of the Board remains unchanged, with Arnold serving in that capacity.

The new CEO said he was "extremely optimistic" about the future of the company and thrilled to be asked by the Board to return as its CEO.

"Disney and its incomparable brands and franchises hold a special place in the hearts of so many people around the globe--most especially in the hearts of our employees, whose dedication to this company and its mission is an inspiration. I am deeply honoured to be asked to again lead this remarkable team, with a clear mission focused on creative excellence to inspire generations through unrivalled, bold storytelling," the new CEO said in the statement.

During his 15 years as CEO, from 2005 to 2020, Iger helped build Disney into one of the world's most successful and admired media and entertainment companies.

He expanded on Disney's legacy of unparalleled storytelling with the acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox and increased the Company's market capitalization fivefold during his time as CEO.

Iger continued to direct Disney's creative endeavours until his departure as Executive Chairman last December, and the Company's robust pipeline of content is a testament to his leadership and vision, the statement read.

Chapek, served as chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products before taking over for Iger.

According to CNN News, Iger found himself dealing with issues refarding pay with Scarlett Johansson, as well as Disney's battles with Florida, and its own employees, regarding the states's controversial bill restricting certain LGBTQ topics in the classroom. (ANI)