The Walt Disney Company has announced the appointment of John Cracknell as managing director of The Walt Disney Company Australia Pty Ltd. All Disney lines of business in Australia and New Zealand will be integrated under a single operational structure all reporting to Cracknell. “Disney has operated in Australia for over 22 years and John has played a key role in the business for 18 of those years,” said Andy Bird, chairman, Walt Disney International. “His local market understanding, expertise, and commitment and passion for growing the brand will enable us to accelerate business growth and take advantage of local opportunities in Australia and New Zealand.”