MUMBAI: Estee Lauder chairman global affairs Fred H Langhammer has been elected by Disney as an independent director. He takes up his post from January 2005.

As had been reported earlier by Indiantelevision.com Disney will launch two channels in India on 17 December.

Disney chairman George J. Mitchell said, "With 40 years of significant international business experience, including a decade as president, and later CEO of his present company, Fred has the proven leadership and global perspective that will serve Disney shareholders well.

"In addition, his experience with upscale and market-leading consumer products and services, including his understanding of how to grow and protect strong international brands, will provide a significant contribution to the issues Disney faces as the company expands globally."

Langhammer helped take Estee Lauder public and presided over explosive growth over the past decade, including a nearly three-fold increase in its stock price.

Disney's governance and nominating committee worked with Russell Reynolds Associates, a global executive recruiting firm, to identify Langhammer as a candidate for the board. Disney meanwhile has already started the process of identifying another independent board member. It is looking to elect that director within a year's time.