ESPN VP, Corporate Communications, Katina Arnold Named SVP, Disney Advertising Communications

She will oversee strategic communications across sales, product, data, and research

Long-time ESPN PR professional Katina Arnold has been named senior vice president, Disney Advertising Communications. She will join the leadership team of Rita Ferro, president, Global Advertising, The Walt Disney Co., and will report to Naomi Bulochnikov, EVP, Communications, Disney Entertainment Television & Direct-to-Consumer.

Katina Arnold: “The experience of working across sports and streaming has given me a unique perspective I’m excited to bring to this next chapter.”

In her new role, Arnold will oversee all strategic communications for Disney Ad Sales, working cross-functionally across sales, product, data, and research to lead corporate messaging, media relations, thought leadership, and executive-communications initiatives for Disney’s industry-leading portfolio.

Explains Ferro, “As Disney Advertising continues to deliver unparalleled value to our clients and audiences across our global business, Katina’s deep expertise and proven ability to elevate brands through thoughtful, strategic communications make her uniquely suited for this role. Her partnership will be critical in driving our next chapter of growth and innovation.”

Adds Bulochnikov, “Katina is an exceptional leader and a gifted communications strategist. Her deep knowledge of our business and the strong relationships she has built across the company will enable her to hit the ground running, and I’m thrilled to have her leading our talented Ad Sales communications team at such a pivotal moment.”

Arnold says it’s a tremendous privilege to step into this role working alongside Disney Advertising Sales and to join such a dynamic, forward-thinking team.

“I’m especially grateful to Rita and Naomi for their visionary leadership and trust, and I look forward to collaborating with them to help shape the future of our business,” she says. “I’m also deeply thankful to my ESPN colleagues for their support over the years. The experience of working across sports and streaming has given me a unique perspective I’m excited to bring to this next chapter.”

Arnold brings more than two decades of experience driving communications strategy for some of the most recognizable brands in media and entertainment. A longtime Disney executive, she transitions to Disney Advertising from ESPN, where she served as VP, Corporate Communications, leading publicity for key businesses and properties, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, ESPN Audio, ESPN’s Direct-to-Consumer streaming platforms, research and the Talent Office. Over her 23-year tenure, she held leadership roles spanning distribution, ad sales, ESPN Deportes, international operations, ESPN Films, the ESPYs, and internal communications.

Prior, Arnold held communications leadership positions at High Speed Access Corp. and AT&T Broadband (formerly Tele-Communications Inc.). She began her career at TCI Media Services in Madison, WI. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Arnold serves as chair of the Alliance for Women in Media and sits on its executive council. She is also actively engaged with WICT, CTAM’s Communications Steering Committee, the Daughters of Penelope, and the Wisconsin Sports Business Conference Alumni Advisory Board.