Naomi Bulochnikov-Paul is leaving Disney TV after eight years as head of communications. She announced the move in a memo to staff, saying she is exiting “to pursue a new opportunity.”
The timing could not have been worse. Just days earlier, Disney reshuffled its entire TV division, moving Eric Schrier from head of international originals to a production pact, shifting Adam Smith into direct-to-consumer oversight, and putting Joe Earley in a newly created role of president of Disney Entertainment Television franchise and content strategy. The new Disney Entertainment Television chairman, Debra OConnell, is said to be considering further structural changes in the coming weeks.
The Memo’s Warm Words
Bulochnikov-Paul’s note reads as sincere and grateful. She thanked Dana Walden, Paul, and Debra OConnell by name, and praised the team she led. The tone is warm throughout.
A Long Career at Disney
Bulochnikov-Paul first joined Disney as VP of communications at Freeform. She later moved to ABC Entertainment as senior vice president of publicity and communications. Her portfolio grew steadily from there.
As executive vice president of communications for Disney Entertainment Television, she led communications across ABC Entertainment, ABC News, Disney Kids & Family, Disney Television Studios, FX, Hulu Originals and National Geographic Content, plus platform distribution and Disney Global Advertising. She also handled executive communications for Dana Walden during her time as Disney Entertainment co-chairman.
What Comes Next
Bulochnikov-Paul’s note offers no hint of where she is heading next. The only detail is that she is pursuing a new opportunity.
OConnell’s note echoed that sentiment without specifying what comes next. She described Bulochnikov-Paul as a thoughtful leader whose team the company relies on, and wished her well.
The Awkward Timing
The memo is warm and sincere. The timing is awkward. The two are not necessarily opposed, but the juxtaposition is striking.
A Quick Look Back
| Role | Company |
|---|---|
| VP of Communications | Freeform |
| Senior VP of Publicity & Communications | ABC Entertainment |
| Executive VP of Communications | Disney Entertainment Television |
The Team’s Reaction
Bulochnikov-Paul’s note thanked the team for their talent, integrity, and care for one another. She singled out Dana Walden, Paul, and Debra OConnell by name.
OConnell’s note called Bulochnikov-Paul a wonderful partner and a thoughtful leader whose team the company relies on.
The Departure’s Shape
Bulochnikov-Paul’s exit follows a familiar pattern at Disney: a senior executive steps away, the company issues a warm note, and the public learns of it secondhand.
What To Watch For
The next few weeks will tell whether OConnell’s rumored structural changes materialize. Bulochnikov-Paul’s exit is unlikely to change that timeline.
Source material: “Naomi Bulochnikov-Paul Exits Disney TV for ‘New Opportunty’ After Eight Years as Head of Communications,” Variety.
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