Russell Hampton

President, Disney Publishing Worldwide

R. Russell Hampton, Jr. was named President of Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) in May 2006. In this role, he is responsible for worldwide operations and strategic direction for DPW’s publishing businesses around the world, including books, magazines, digital and Disney English.

Under Hampton’s leadership, DPW has maintained its position as the world’s largest children’s publisher. Hampton was instrumental in the creation of Disney English, an English language learning initiative which now encompasses 20 learning centers throughout China as well as a global retail licensing program. Hampton oversees DPW’s digital businesses, including eBooks and mobile apps, and also provides leadership for DPW’s core business of vertical and licensed books and magazines.

Previously, Hampton served as executive vice president of DCP’s global Home and Infant business. Prior to that, Hampton was named SVP & GM of The Baby Einstein Company, where he spearheaded the growth of the infant developmental brand into one of the world’s leading infant product companies, growing the business by triple digits year over year.

Hampton has also served as vice president of strategic planning and corporate development for The Walt Disney Company. Hampton joined The Walt Disney Company in 1996 as manager of strategic planning where he played a lead role in the divestiture of ABC publishing, the launch of Radio Disney Argentina, and the sale of The Disney Store Japan.

Before joining Disney, Hampton was vice president of J.P. Morgan & Co. in New York. Hampton graduated from Colgate University with Bachelor’s degrees in English and Economics. He also holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Northwestern University.