Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has announced the appointment of Priya Aiyar as its new Chief Legal Officer, a strategic move as the media conglomerate seeks to strengthen its legal and compliance functions globally. Aiyar will officially assume her role in February 2025 and report directly to David Zaslav, Chief Executive Officer of WBD.

Zaslav expressed confidence in Aiyar’s capabilities, stating, “There has never been a more important moment for WBD and our industry to have the brightest minds, most experienced practitioners, and proven leaders, and Priya personifies those traits. Her wealth of knowledge and strategic capabilities will help us navigate opportunities and ongoing evolution as we pursue global growth in streaming, a return to excellence at our studios, and the optimization of our linear business.”

Aiyar joins WBD following her tenure at American Airlines, where she served as Chief Legal Officer since 2022. In this role, she managed the airline’s legal affairs and strategies worldwide, oversaw labor relations, and played a pivotal role as a key advisor to the board. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was instrumental in guiding the company through unprecedented challenges and a successful return to profitability.

During her time at American Airlines, she was also integral to achieving milestone agreements with the company’s unionized workgroups, cementing her reputation as a capable negotiator and strategist.

Prior to her time at American Airlines, Aiyar held senior positions at prominent law firms, including Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP and Kellogg, Huber, Hansen, Todd, Evans & Figel PLLC. She also has a notable history of public service, having served as Acting General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel for the U.S. Department of the Treasury from 2013 to 2017 and as Deputy General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Energy earlier in her career.

Her legal career began with prestigious clerkships under Judge Merrick Garland at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and Justice Stephen Breyer at the U.S. Supreme Court.

Aiyar boasts an impressive academic record, holding a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School, a master’s degree from the University of Oxford, and a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University. A Rhodes Scholar, she exemplifies academic and professional excellence.

The addition of Aiyar to Warner Bros. Discovery’s leadership comes as the company focuses on its global expansion in streaming, reinvigorating its studios, and optimizing its linear television business. Her appointment signals a commitment to navigating the complexities of the media and entertainment landscape with seasoned expertise.