With Gary Marsh leaving Disney to launch his own production business, Davis got the tap for the open president job. The 18-year Disney veteran’s impressive track record includes the successful debuts of new series like “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers,” “Big Shot,” and feature documentary “Wolfgang.” She’s proud of her work with the 20-year-old “ABC Discovers” program, a host of casting initiatives that aim to discover, nurture and create opportunities for up-and-coming talent from around the world. Alumni of the program include Lupita Nyong’o and Pedro Pascal. Last year, diversity in media group T. Howard honored Davis with its Executive Leadership Award. “Opportunity gaps exist in a real way, and access can be very different for various groups of people,” she says. “However, when you’re mindful that not everyone has the same opportunities, you understand that fresh voices and new perspectives are crucial to driving the industry’s momentum, creativity and transformation.”
Do you think there has been significant progress on DEI in the industry in the past year?
While there is much work to be done in the space of diversity, equity and inclusion, I believe this past year and a half has brought about a larger sense of accountability and awareness. I am encouraged to see a shared focus across The Walt Disney Company and the Industry. The shift in the makeup of executives and the focus on initiatives to create pipelines that identify talent both in front of and behind the camera is promising. Opportunity gaps exist in a real way, and access can be very different for various groups of people. However, when you’re mindful that not everyone has the same opportunities, you understand that fresh voices and new perspectives are crucial to driving the Industry’s momentum, creativity and transformation.
My best advice for fostering open, honest communication…
Good communication always begins at the top. Make sure that people know their experience, opinions and ideas matter. Leaders that foster environments where employees feel supported, seen and heard will inherently yield better results. Always show up as your authentic self, and encourage safe spaces for learning and growing.
Which celebrity do you think is setting a strong example for the next generation?
I am so inspired by Avantika, the star of our latest DCOM “Spin.” As our first American Indian to lead a movie and Gen Zer, she is a force with her powerful message to just be yourself. I love that, and I think that’s something we can all learn — at any age.
