Gail Evans, the Disney Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Technology Officer (CDTO) sudden and tragic passing has sent ripples across the company and the global technology community.
Disney Mourns the Passing of Visionary Technology Leader Gail Evans
Evans, a transformative figure in the world of digital innovation, led Disney’s digital strategy with a vision that reshaped guest experiences and set new standards for interactive entertainment. The cause of her passing has not been disclosed, yet her impact resonates deeply within Disney and beyond.
With Walt Disney World Resort and other Disney theme parks in the mix, Evans ensured true love was put into the guest experience through her hard work and determination, working side-by-side with public employees, board members, and others.
Gail Evans, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Disney Experiences, has passed away. Evans joined Disney in 2022 after working at Mercer where she was named the company’s first Global Chief Digital Officer in 2018.
Gail Evans, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Disney Experiences, has passed away.
Evans joined Disney in 2022 after working at Mercer where she was named the company's first Global Chief Digital Officer in 2018. pic.twitter.com/scMSJqRTTa
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) October 30, 2024
Revolutionizing Disney’s Digital Experience
At Disney, Evans led a global, multidisciplinary team of digital, product, data, and operations professionals, each dedicated to pushing forward Disney’s technological advancements. Her team was responsible for creating innovative tools, such as the MagicBand+ and Hey Disney!, designed to integrate digital storytelling into the Disney experience. By merging technology with Disney’s renowned storytelling, Evans redefined what was possible for guests, introducing new levels of interactivity and immersion that have become defining features of Disney parks and experiences.
Tributes from Disney Leadership
Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed profound sadness at the loss of Evans, honoring her as an influential and visionary leader who left an indelible mark on Disney’s digital landscape. “Gail was a transformative force who reimagined the possibilities of technology in enhancing Disney experiences,” said Iger. “Her commitment to excellence propelled Disney’s digital innovations forward. Gail was also a dedicated mentor, invested in developing future leaders. Her presence will be missed by all who were privileged to know her.”
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A Leader of Inclusivity and Talent Development
Evans was more than a technological innovator; she was a champion for diversity and inclusion, creating initiatives to foster an inclusive workplace at Disney. Her programs encouraged representation across all areas of Disney’s operations, setting a strong foundation for an equitable culture. Under her leadership, the Disney team became a more diverse and innovative environment, reflective of Evans’s commitment to ensuring that every voice had a place in shaping Disney’s future.
A Career of Influence Across Industries
Before joining Disney, Evans’s career included transformative roles at some of the world’s most influential companies. She served as the first Chief Digital Officer at Mercer, where she laid the groundwork for the company’s digital transformation strategy. Her prior experience at Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, and Bank of America underscored her reputation as a digital strategist, consistently driving these companies to adopt forward-thinking digital solutions. She began her journey at Eastman Kodak Company, where she witnessed how digital innovation could reshape an entire industry.
Awards and Accolades Honoring Innovation and Leadership
Evans’s contributions to the field of digital technology earned her numerous accolades throughout her career. She was a finalist for the prestigious MIT Sloan CIO Leadership Award in 2019, a global recognition of exemplary technology leadership. She was also awarded the Phenom Award by the Digital Diversity Network in 2018 and recognized among the Top 100 Chief Digital Officers and the Top 100 Women in Tech. Her achievements were celebrated again in 2024 when she was named an InspiringFifty UK honoree, recognizing the most influential women in technology. Evans’s dedication to innovation and mentorship was also highlighted in the Netflix documentary series Working: What We Do All Day, where her influence was evident.
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Educational Background and Dedication to Mentorship
Evans earned a bachelor’s degree from Nazareth College, an MBA from the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School, and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Nazareth College. Beyond her professional achievements, she was a passionate advocate for women in technology, dedicating time to mentoring young women entering STEM fields. Her commitment extended into her work with the MIT Center for Information Systems Research (CISR), where she helped link academic research with real-world applications, broadening her impact across the technology community.
Creating a Culture of Innovation at Disney
Evans believed that innovation flourished in an environment of continuous learning and testing. She encouraged her team to adopt a lab-like approach to product development, where Disney cast members and consumers could participate in testing. This feedback loop ensured that every technological advancement remained aligned with Disney’s values and upheld its storytelling tradition, making sure each product resonated with Disney’s global audience.
A Lasting Legacy in Technology and Leadership
As news of her passing spread, industry colleagues, former mentees, and Disney enthusiasts worldwide shared tributes to honor Evans. Her visionary approach, combined with her commitment to inclusivity and mentorship, established her as an inspirational figure in the technology space. Her legacy, built on innovation and compassion, will continue to shape Disney’s digital landscape and inspire future leaders in the tech industry.
Disney extends its heartfelt condolences to Gail Evans’s family, friends, and everyone who knew her as a mentor, leader, and friend. Her life’s work and vision will continue to influence Disney’s digital future as the company honors her legacy by upholding the values of creativity, inclusivity, and innovation she so passionately championed.