Ray Warren

The Walt Disney Co. has the most progressive reputation among all major media companies. That opinion derives not just from its broad-minded content (Turning Red, Strange World, The Little Mermaid) and stances against bullies like Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida but also from employing people behind the scenes who understand the benefits — financial and societal — of expansive representation. Ray Warren — director, multicultural and inclusive solutions for Disney’s advertising team — is a prime example of the company living up to its cinematic ideals.

In his position, Warren helps Disney reach marginalized communities; this year his team launched content partnerships with numerous minority media companies, including Cocina, Group Black, and equalpride (publisher of Out). Before joining Disney, Warren founded his own marketing and media company and served as a senior manager at Cadillac, helping the venerable car company gain exposure at the Oscars, ESPYs, and the American Black Film Festival.

Representation matters beyond film and television, Warren says, since people consume media in so many different ways now. Advertising, journalism, social media content — it all must be reflective of the real world. “It is important that [all people] see themselves represented in all of the content they consume,” he says.

As an out Black professional, Warren is no stranger to being a minority in a board room. “It is difficult to change perceptions and ideals that have existed before my time, but I am overcoming it by being true to my calling and taking the necessary time to process each situation and respond with facts, empathy, and a solution for progress,” he says. @warrenmarketingmedia