Carmen Smith
SVP & Executive Creative Development Product/Content & Inclusive Strategies
Disney Parks, Experiences and Products
Carmen Smith is Senior Vice President and Executive Creative Development Product/Content & Inclusive Strategies for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products (DPEP), where she leads a holistic, global approach to offering more inclusive products and experiences and expanding Disney’s reach, relevance and impact with guests and consumers around the world. She performs these functions for the entire DPEP business segment, which consists of Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Live Entertainment, and Disney Consumer Products, Games and Publishing.
Among her responsibilities, Carmen guides global relevancy assessments to identify issues and address concerns; advises on content to make sure Disney’s stories, characters, products and experiences are culturally accurate, authentic, inclusive and devoid of stereotypes; diversifies external partnerships and collaborations; and ensures thoughtful representation and engagement throughout the creative development process. Carmen also oversees the creation of content as both an executive producer and executive creative director. She is leading the development of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, an attraction at both Disneyland Park in California and Magic Kingdom Park in Florida inspired by the fan-favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios film, “The Princess and the Frog.”
In her previous role as vice president of Creative Development – Inclusive Strategies for Walt Disney Imagineering, Carmen was responsible for developing a diverse pipeline of product, themed experiences and people to enhance Imagineering’s consultant talent and its creative processes globally. Prior to joining Imagineering, she served as the vice president of Talent Development Programs for the Disney/ABC Television Group.
Carmen serves on the executive boards of the Urban Resource Institute, East West Players, Jenesse Center Inc., the Robey Theatre Company, and the Mattie C. Stewart Foundation.
A native of New York, Carmen graduated from Hunter College with a degree in communication arts and received a Master’s in International Administration from New York University. She holds an honorary doctorate from Manhattan College and completed the Harvard University Women and Power Executive Education Program at John F. Kennedy School of Government. She is the recipient of multiple honors, including the Themed Entertainment Association’s Thea Catalyst Award, recognizing individuals who have made an important impact benefitting the themed entertainment industry.
