Mark Zuckerberg has appointed a former metaverse executive to enhance Facebook's AI initiatives, signaling a strategic shift towards strengthening AI capabilities within the company.
Vanguard Group has appointed Joanna Rotenberg, a former executive from Fidelity Investments, to lead its newly created advice and wealth management division. Rotenberg, who will start in January, has previously held senior positions at BMO Financial Group and McKinsey & Co.
Debra OConnell, a longtime executive at Disney, has been appointed as the president of a newly created division that will oversee ABC News and the company’s local stations. This move puts her in charge of ABC News’s key properties, with the current ABC News president, Kim Godwin, now reporting to OConnell. The reorganization mirrors similar changes at other network news divisions, adding an executive layer between top leadership and the news division head. The move comes amid challenges for ABC News, including declining ratings for "Good Morning America," and is aimed at better amplifying the organization's work.
Japan Airlines has appointed Tottori Mitsuko as its new president, making her the first female president of a major Japanese airline. Mitsuko, who has been with the company for nearly 40 years, spent over half of her career as a flight attendant before moving into management roles related to flight attendants and cabin safety. Her appointment is seen as unconventional for an airline executive, but it reflects a focus on safety and customer experience. This move is expected to inspire frontline employees and bring a fresh perspective to the airline's leadership.
Fanatics, the sports platform, has hired former Opendoor executive Andrew Low Ah Kee as the CEO of its merchandise business unit, Fanatics Commerce, which generates over $5 billion in annual sales. This move is part of Fanatics' restructuring efforts, with a focus on commerce, betting and gaming, and collectibles. The company aims to create the best fan experience and expand its business beyond sports merchandise, including ventures into sports betting. The recent executive appointments bring Fanatics closer to its goal of an eventual IPO.
Boeing has appointed Alvin Liu as the new head of its China unit, as the aircraft maker faces challenges in the crucial Chinese aviation market due to geopolitical and trade tensions. Liu, a Chinese-born representative recently hired from the auto industry, will take over from Sherry Carbary, who stepped down in July. Liu's appointment is seen as a strategic move to rebuild ties with China, as he has experience working with the country's civil aviation authorities and is physically present in China.
Ford has appointed former Apple executive Peter Stern as the president of its newly formed Ford Integrated Services unit, tasked with developing high-margin digital and subscription services. Stern will focus on integrating hardware, software, and services across Ford's various units. The move is part of Ford's strategy to expand beyond its traditional business model and generate recurring revenues from services connected to its vehicles. Ford plans to create bundles of services to provide safer, more convenient, and more productive experiences for customers.