Latondra Newton, Disney‘s chief diversity officer and senior vice president, is leaving her position after more than six years, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday.
Newton intends to join the corporate board of another company and focus on her creative company.
Newton’s direct reports will be led on an interim basis by Julie Merges, the senior vice president of talent acquisition, according to an internal note from Sonia Coleman, Disney’s chief human resources officer.
Newton had, since 2017, led Disney’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, coordinating with various teams to produce entertainment “that reflects a global audience and sustains a welcoming and inclusive workplace for everyone,” as per a profile on the company’s website.
Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” released last month, featured Black American singer Halle Bailey as Princess Ariel, highlighting the firm’s effort at promoting diversity.
Disney didn’t immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
Variety previously reported on Newton’s departure.
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