Netflix Alum Emily Feingold Joins Disney as Executive VP of Communications

Netflix alum Emily Feingold has joined the Walt Disney Co. as executive VP of communications, where she will steer media relations, financial and technology communications as well as enterprise editorial, executive and brand messaging.

Feingold’s move to Disney in a senior communications role comes five months after she left Netflix following a nine-year tenure with the streaming giant. Feingold steps into the role held by David Jefferson, who has taken the company’s voluntary early retirement offer after spending the past 15 years as a senior Disney corporate communications executive.

Feingold reports to Paul Roeder, who ascended to senior executive VP and chief communications office in March after Josh D’Amaro was tapped as the Mouse House’s new CEO. Feingold is respected as a straight-shooter from her years in the trenches during Netflix’s stunning rise.

“Emily is one of the best in the business,” Roeder said. “She combines sharp instincts, broad experience and the trust and respect of colleagues and journalists alike. She’s led communications through some of the most transformative moments in our industry, and she’ll be a tremendous asset as we head into an exciting chapter for Disney.”

Before joining Netflix, Feingold served as senior VP of corporate strategy and communications at private investment firm Andell Inc. She served as VP of corporate communications for fashion giant Ralph Lauren. Feingold began her career at the White House.

Jefferson will remain on board during the transition period through the end of the month. He first joined Disney’s PR ranks in 2009 when he signed on with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. He left the Mouse at end of 2010 but returned in January 2013 in a corporate communications role. He was most recently upped to exec VP of corporate communications in March 2025.

Before Disney, Jefferson had a 14-year run at the Wall Street Journal in a variety of roles, including deputy Los Angeles bureau chief. He also worked as a top editor at Newsweek for eight years, followed later by another stint at Newsweek and the Daily Beast after he left Disney in 2010.

“David has been a trusted voice and steady hand for Disney through some of the most consequential moments in our history,” Roeder said. “I’ve known him since his days as a reporter, and I’m deeply grateful for his counsel, his friendship and everything he’s done for this company. I wish him every success in what comes next.”