Warner Bros. Discovery is making significant changes to its global consumer products and franchises division, with the departure of Pam Lifford as president and the appointment of Robert Oberschelp as the new head of the division. These changes aim to bring fresh leadership and drive the company’s intellectual property portfolio forward.
New Leadership in Warner Bros. Discovery’s Consumer Products Division
Warner Bros. Discovery has announced a major shake-up in its global consumer products and franchises division, which oversees the management of its intellectual property, including DC Comics. Pam Lifford, the president of the group, will be stepping down from her position to focus on a family member’s healthcare needs. This decision has prompted the need for new leadership in the division.
Bruce Campbell, Warner’s chief revenue and strategy officer, who already has oversight of the division, will now have new direct reports. Robert Oberschelp, who has been heading the consumer products business in North America, will take over as the new head of the division and will report directly to Campbell. This change in leadership aims to bring a fresh perspective and drive the division’s growth.
Lifford, who joined the company in 2016, expressed her pride in the accomplishments of the group under her leadership. She believes that with the new leadership across the studio and company, Warner Bros. Discovery’s consumer products division will continue to soar and become unrivaled in the industry. Campbell acknowledged Lifford’s contributions and the value she brought to the company, expressing his excitement about future collaborations.
To further strengthen the division, Campbell will recruit a new global head of franchise who will work closely with him and the senior creative leadership team at Warner Bros. Discovery. This executive will be responsible for developing the company’s global intellectual property portfolio across all businesses, including film, television, and games. The aim is to maximize the potential of Warner Bros. Discovery’s IP and create new opportunities for growth.
Additionally, Preston Kevin Lewis, head of consumer products for Latin America and retail management for the Americas, will take on added responsibility for North America Consumer Products, reporting to Oberschelp. Julian Moon, head of consumer products for EMEA and Asia Pacific, has announced his retirement in 2024 after 33 years at the company. Moon will work with Oberschelp and Warner Bros. Discovery leadership on succession plans in the coming months.
Peter van Roden, head of global themed entertainment, will continue in his role leading licensed location-based entertainment, theme parks, and in-person experiences businesses. His team manages the strategic partnership with Universal Destinations & Experiences for properties like “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” “Game of Thrones,” and “Friends,” among others.
These executive changes will take effect on November 27 and are expected to bring a fresh perspective and drive growth in Warner Bros. Discovery’s consumer products and franchises division. The company aims to capitalize on its valuable intellectual property and position itself as a leader in the industry.
