---
title: "Leadership Changes Announced at Pixar Animation Studios"
url: https://noti.group/leadership-changes-announced-at-pixar-animation-studios/
language: en
publisher: "Noti Group"
section: "Entertainment"
published: 2026-11-05T00:45:00.000Z
updated: 2026-11-06T02:37:30.518Z
id: 84e5fbd6-25fe-49dd-890d-edd93bb9d2f1
source: "The Hollywood Reporter https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/pixar-jonathan-garson-president-jim-morris-emeritus-1236748088/"
attribution: "Link to https://noti.group/leadership-changes-announced-at-pixar-animation-studios/ and name Noti Group when you quote or summarize this story."
---

# Leadership Changes Announced at Pixar Animation Studios

Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman announced that Jonathan Garson has been appointed as Pixar's new president, effective January 4, 2027.

Pixar Animation Studios is undergoing significant leadership changes as it prepares to enter its next chapter.

Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman announced on Wednesday that Jonathan Garson has been appointed as Pixar's new president. This move comes as Jim Morris transitions into a president emeritus position, marking a shift in the studio's leadership dynamics. The changes will take effect on January 4, 2027.

In his new role, Garson will work closely with Pete Docter, who continues to lead Pixar as chief creative officer. Meanwhile, Jonas Rivera has been promoted to creative executive vice president, overseeing filmmakers and development, and will collaborate with both Garson and Docter in their roles. This expanded position for Rivera reflects the studio's commitment to nurturing its talent.

Jim Morris, a long-time studio executive, will continue to serve as executive producer on Incredibles 3 while also focusing on talent development across Pixar and Walt Disney Studios. Furthermore, he will oversee technology initiatives at the company. Both Garson and Morris will report directly to Alan Bergman in their new capacities.

Bergman praised Morris for his dedication to Pixar and its people, describing him as a "tremendous partner" and a close friend. The transition is intended to ensure a smooth succession of leadership at the studio, allowing it to move forward with confidence.

As part of its leadership transition plan, Pixar is handing over the reins to Jonathan Garson, who will assume the role of president at the studio.

With a deep background in both animation and film production, Garson has earned recognition for his exceptional leadership skills and unique understanding of what makes Pixar's storytelling so compelling.

Morris' 12-year tenure as president saw Pixar movies surpass $12 billion worldwide, cementing its position as a leader in the industry.

In addition to Garson, Jonas Rivera is also taking on new responsibilities at Pixar, bringing with him his extensive creative expertise and experience working closely with key artists and storytellers.

As he steps back from day-to-day operations, Morris will focus on special projects, collaborating with colleagues including Pete Docter, Jonathan Garson, and Jonas Rivera.

As Morris transitions to his new role as President Emeritus, he has full confidence in Jonathan Garson's ability to carry on the legacy of Pixar.

Garson brings over three decades of experience working at Disney and a deep understanding of Pixar's unique culture and values. He first joined Pixar in 2010, where he worked closely with Docter and Morris for 16 years, most recently serving as general manager after leading the marketing and franchise team.

Garson is still in awe of how far his career has taken him, from watching Toy Story for the first time to stepping into a leadership role at Pixar. He attributes his success to the support of his colleagues, particularly Morris, who has shown him what it means to preserve the studio's culture of quality and innovation.

Garson is grateful for the trust placed in him by Morris and Alan, and he looks forward to working with the production leadership team led by Katherine Sarafian and Lindsey Collins. He also acknowledges the exceptional talent that makes Pixar stand out, including Pete Docter, Jonas Rivera, and many others who will continue to push boundaries and drive the studio's success.

With Garson at the helm, Pixar is poised to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and ambition, building on its legacy as a leader in animation.

As part of its leadership restructuring, Pixar has announced that Jonathan Garson will take on the role of president, while Jim Morris steps back to become President Emeritus.

Rivera and Docter will partner in overseeing key creative departments, including directors, development, casting, and content advisement. Both Rivera and Docter have been tasked with executive producing every Pixar feature film going forward. Rivera's extensive experience at Pixar spans over two decades, with credits on nearly every release and notable accolades such as Oscar wins for Inside Out and Toy Story 4.

Rivera expressed his gratitude towards the studio, its people, and their work, stating that it has been his life's passion since he first joined as a production intern in 1994. He acknowledged Jim Morris' leadership and mentorship, vowing to build on the lessons learned from him as the studio embarks on a new chapter.

The studio is set for continued success with its next features lined up, including Gatto next year and Ghost Market and Incredibles 3 scheduled for 2028. The recent Toy Story 5 release has already broken the billion-dollar mark globally and is expected to generate awards attention.

---
Source: [The Hollywood Reporter](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/pixar-jonathan-garson-president-jim-morris-emeritus-1236748088/)  
Published by Noti Group: https://noti.group/leadership-changes-announced-at-pixar-animation-studios/
