MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors has elected financial advisory firm WE Family Offices’ CEO and managing partner Maria Elena Lagomasino as an independent director, effective 1 December, 2015.

“Ms. Lagomasino is a respected leader in the finance and investment field and also has a wealth of experience with, and keen understanding of, global consumer brands. I know the Company and its shareholders will benefit greatly from her Board service,” said Disney chairman and CEO Robert A. Iger.

“Disney is a brand that embodies the values I believe in, with its unwavering commitment to creating high-quality entertainment, exceeding consumer expectations, and delivering outstanding financial performance for its shareholders. I am honored to have the opportunity to serve on the Board of such an iconic and beloved company,” added Lagomasino.

Lagomasino will stand for election along with the company’s other directors at Disney’s next annual meeting.

Before founding WE Family Offices, Lagomasino served as GenSpring Family Offices CEO. Prior to that she was with JP Morgan Private Bank as chairman and CEO. Her career began in 1977 at Citibank. She joined Chase Manhattan Private Bank in 1983 and was named head of Chase’s worldwide private banking business in 1997. Following the Chase-JP Morgan merger, she became chairman and CEO of JP Morgan Private Bank.