Gail Evans Obituary, Orlando, Florida: Pioneering Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Disney Experiences Passes Away Unexpectedly Following Illness; Celebrated Leader in Tech Innovation and Diversity Remembered for Uniting Digital and Physical Realms in Disney’s Iconic Storytelling
In a profound loss for the technology and entertainment sectors, Gail Evans, the influential Chief Digital and Technology Officer (CDTO) of Disney Experiences, has tragically passed away in Orlando, Florida. Known for her transformative vision and extensive leadership in digital and technological innovation, Gail Evans’ untimely death, which followed a brief illness, has left a significant impact on colleagues, industry peers, and loved ones alike. She was surrounded by her family in her final moments.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
A recognized leader in the tech industry, Gail was at the helm of Disney’s digital transformation, where she led a skilled team of technologists, designers, innovators, project managers, and storytellers. Together, they brought to life Disney’s world-renowned characters, creating immersive experiences that connected audiences to the stories they loved in unprecedented ways. Gail was instrumental in the development of notable Disney projects like MagicBand+ and Hey Disney!, products that blurred the boundaries between digital innovation and physical interaction.
Her initiatives championed the fusion of digital storytelling with cutting-edge technologies, giving guests a uniquely enriched Disney experience. Through her guidance, these technologies and experiences consistently pushed boundaries, evolving from research insights and frequent consumer feedback sessions. By placing real-world testing at the heart of her innovation process, Gail ensured that Disney’s digital ventures maintained a high level of quality and engagement for millions of guests.
Professional Accomplishments and Trailblazing Influence
Before joining Disney, Gail amassed decades of experience across top global organizations, driving digital growth, fostering innovation, and advocating for the importance of diversity in the tech space. She previously served as Chief Digital Officer at Mercer, where she led the firm’s digital strategy, influencing market-leading solutions that reshaped digital experiences in the consulting industry. Her extensive leadership experience also spanned roles at Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, Bank of America, and Eastman Kodak, where she notably served as Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Kodak’s Consumer Digital business.
Throughout her career, Gail was repeatedly recognized for her achievements and was celebrated as an inspiration to countless others in tech. In 2019, she was named a finalist for the MIT Sloan CIO Leadership Award, an acknowledgment reserved for leaders who demonstrate excellence in tech-driven business transformation. She also received the Digital Diversity Network’s Phenom Award in 2018, honoring her as a trailblazer who championed diversity and inclusion within digital media and technology.
In addition, Gail was listed among the Top 100 Chief Digital Officers by Hot Topics, and she earned a place as one of the Top 100 Women in Tech Leaders to Watch in 2023. Her contributions and impact were so noteworthy that she was profiled in Netflix’s documentary series Working: What We Do All Day. In 2024, she was honored as an InspiringFifty UK recipient, recognizing her as one of the fifty leading women driving results and innovation in digital industries across the UK.