MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Company board of directors has nominated Facebook Inc. chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg, to be a new independent director, effective upon her election at the company’s next annual meeting.

"Sheryl is an outstanding executive who can add incredible value to what is already a diverse and highly experienced group of directors," said Disney chairman John E. Pepper Jr… "She brings great expertise in the online world, considerable international experience and a deep understanding of consumer behavior."

Sandberg has served as Facebook COO, since March 2008. Prior to joining Facebook, Sandberg was  Google Inc. vice president Global Online Sales and Operations, a post she assumed in 2001.

"Sheryl has been at the forefront of a technological revolution that’s opened up a world of new possibilities for consumers and which has greatly affected the way we do business," said Disney president and chief executive officer Robert A. Iger. "Her unique insight, born of great practical experience, will be of considerable value to Disney’s shareholders."

"Disney has remained an entertainment icon around the world for over 80 years by enthusiastically embracing change and new technologies," said Sandberg. "It’s a tremendous honor to be nominated to the Disney board."

Disney shareholders will vote on Sandberg’s nomination and the re-election of the Company’s other 12 directors at the next Disney annual meeting on10 March, 2010 in San Antonio, Texas.