In a move that signals a continued focus on the strength of its theme parks and resort business, The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors has unanimously elected its next Chief Executive Officer.
Josh D’Amaro, currently the Chairman of Disney Experiences, will officially succeed Robert A. Iger effective March 18, 2026, coinciding with the company’s Annual Meeting.
For the attractions industry, the appointment places a veteran parks and resorts executive at the helm of the world’s largest entertainment company. D’Amaro, a 28-year Disney veteran, has led the Disney Experiences segment (formerly Parks, Experiences and Products) since 2020, overseeing a portfolio that includes 12 theme parks, 57 resort hotels, and the Disney Cruise Line.
“Josh D’Amaro possesses that rare combination of inspiring leadership and innovation, a keen eye for strategic growth opportunities, and a deep passion for the Disney brand and its people – all of which make him the right person to take the helm as Disney’s next CEO,” said James Gorman, Chairman of The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors.
Gorman highlighted D’Amaro’s track record in the themed entertainment sector, noting his success in “collaborating with some of the biggest names in entertainment to bring their stories to life in our parks, showcasing the power of combining Disney storytelling with cutting-edge technology.”
A Legacy of Park Expansion
D’Amaro’s tenure as Chairman of Disney Experiences has been marked by significant capital investment and expansion. He is credited as the architect of the largest global expansion in the segment’s history, overseeing the launch of immersive lands such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Avengers Campus, as well as the recent World of Frozen.
Under his leadership, the division has also announced future projects, including a Monsters, Inc. land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a new Avatar destination at Disneyland Resort, and a massive expansion of the Magic Kingdom.
Outgoing CEO Bob Iger expressed strong confidence in his successor, emphasising D’Amaro’s operational expertise.
“Josh D’Amaro is an exceptional leader and the right person to become our next CEO,” Iger said. “He has an instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand, and a deep understanding of what resonates with our audiences, paired with the rigour and attention to detail required to deliver some of our most ambitious projects.”
Leadership Transition Details
As part of the leadership reshuffle, Dana Walden, currently Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, has been named President and Chief Creative Officer. Walden will report directly to D’Amaro, a structure designed to unify the company’s storytelling strategy across all platforms.
Bob Iger, who returned to the CEO role in 2022 to steer the company through a period of restructuring, will transition to the role of Senior Advisor and remain on the Board until his retirement on December 31, 2026.
D’Amaro acknowledged the weight of the new role and the legacy he is inheriting.
“I am immensely grateful to the Board for entrusting me with leading a company that means so much to me and millions around the world,” D’Amaro said.
“Disney’s strength has always come from our people and the creative excellence that defines our stories and experiences. There is no limit to what Disney can achieve, and I am excited to work with our teams across the company and brilliant creative partners to honour Disney’s remarkable legacy while continuing to innovate, grow, and deliver exceptional value for our consumers and shareholders.”
The appointment follows a multi-year succession planning process led by the Board’s special committee. D’Amaro is expected to join the Board of Directors immediately following the March annual meeting.
Images: The Walt Disney Company
