The Orlando Sentinel has confirmed that Jim Lewis is no longer employed by The Walt Disney Company.
Disney would only say that Lewis is no longer with the company, however multiple sources claim that Lewis was fired from his position.
Disney spokesperson Rena Langley is quoted as saying "[w]e wish Jim Lewis well in his future endeavors and we plan to announce his successor in the near future." Lewis had been with the Disney company since 1996 and was named President of Disney Vacation Club in 2006.
Recent executive changes within the Disney Parks and Resorts division altered the reporting structure for the Disney Vacation Club business unit. The recent departure of Al Weiss, president of worldwide operations for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, resulted in DVC oversight being shifted to Disney Cruise Line head Karl Holz. The reorganization was announced by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs back in July.
Several sources claim the dismissal is linked to missteps with the Aulani resort in Hawai'i. Disney Vacation Club began selling ownership in the Aulani resort in July 2010 but abruptly halted all sales in July 2011. Indications are that Lewis may be taking the blame for unspecified errors made as the Aulani resort was initially brought to market.
Aulani opens to guests on August 29, 2011 but at this time Disney Vacation Club is not currently contracting with buyers to purchase an ownership interest in the resort.
