James Close serves as the Vice President of Ad Sales Finance at Walt Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of some of the most iconic brands in the broadcast media industry. With extensive experience in...
James Close serves as the Vice President of Ad Sales Finance at Walt Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of some of the most iconic brands in the broadcast media industry. With extensive experience in financial leadership, James is responsible for overseeing strategic financial planning and management across a diverse portfolio that includes ABC, ESPN, FX, National Geographic, Disney Channels, and Freeform. His expertise in financial analysis and modeling enables him to effectively manage the consolidation of both linear and digital revenue streams, ensuring that Disney Ad Sales is well-positioned to meet its financial objectives.
In his current role, James leads the development of comprehensive financial forecasts, annual plans, and five-year strategic initiatives that align with the company's overarching goals. His contributions are crucial during investor relations reporting, where he articulates the financial health and growth potential of Disney's advertising business. James’s strong analytical skills and strategic mindset allow him to drive core initiatives that enhance revenue generation and optimize resource allocation across the portfolio.
A graduate of the University of Florida's Warrington College of Business, James combines his academic foundation with a wealth of industry experience to navigate the complexities of the media landscape. His leadership in financial strategy not only supports the operational needs of Disney's networks but also positions the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the ever-evolving digital advertising space. Through his work, James Close exemplifies the intersection of finance and media, driving innovation and profitability in a competitive marketplace.
