Hey Thrill Seekers,
The Walt Disney Company has officially revealed its next Chief Executive Officer – and it’s a familiar face for theme park fans around the world.
Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro has been unanimously elected by Disney’s Board of Directors to become CEO of The Walt Disney Company, taking over from longtime boss Bob Iger from the 18 March 2026. D’Amaro is also set to join Disney’s Board of Directors following the transition.
For anyone who loves Disney Parks, this is huge news. D’Amaro currently leads Disney Experiences, the company’s biggest business segment, generating $36 billion in revenue in 2025 and employing around 185,000 Cast Members worldwide. A 28-year Disney veteran, he’s been the driving force behind the largest global expansion in Disney Experiences history, overseeing massive investments in new attractions, lands, resorts, and guest experiences across the globe.
Disney Board Chairman James Gorman praised D’Amaro as the right leader for Disney’s future, highlighting his passion for the brand, strong creative instincts, and proven ability to blend Disney storytelling with cutting-edge technology. In short: someone who understands both the magic and the business.
Current CEO Bob Iger echoed that sentiment, calling D’Amaro an exceptional leader with a deep understanding of what truly resonates with Disney fans. Iger said D’Amaro’s mix of creativity and operational excellence has helped deliver some of Disney’s most ambitious projects to date.
Dana Walden Takes on Brand-New Creative Role
Alongside the CEO announcement, Disney also confirmed another major leadership change. Dana Walden, currently Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, has been named President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company, effective the same day as D’Amaro’s promotion.
This newly created role is a first for Disney and puts Walden in charge of storytelling and creative direction across the entire company – from movies and TV to streaming and beyond. She will report directly to D’Amaro and focus on ensuring Disney’s creative output stays consistent, impactful, and aligned with the brand fans know and love.
Iger described Walden as a highly respected leader within the creative community, noting that creativity sits at the very heart of Disney’s success.
Bob Iger’s Final Chapter at Disney
Although stepping down as CEO, Bob Iger isn’t disappearing just yet. He will remain a Senior Advisor and Board member through to his retirement on 31 December 2026, following an extensive succession planning process that included mentoring internal candidates.
Iger’s legacy looms large. Across nearly two decades at the helm – including his return in 2022 – he guided Disney through industry upheaval, restructured the company, restored financial discipline, and set four key priorities: stronger films, profitable streaming, a digital-first ESPN, and accelerated growth across Disney Experiences.
With Disney now in a far stronger position than it was three years ago, Josh D’Amaro steps into the top job at a pivotal – and exciting – moment, especially for fans eager to see what the next era of Disney Parks, resorts, and experiences will bring.
Incoming Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro said he was “immensely grateful” for the opportunity to lead a company that means so much to him – and to millions of fans around the world.
D’Amaro highlighted that Disney’s true strength lies in its people and its world-class creativity, which continue to shape the stories, attractions, and experiences guests love. Looking ahead, he said the future for Disney is limitless and shared his excitement about working alongside Cast Members and creative partners across the business to honour Disney’s incredible legacy, while continuing to innovate, grow, and evolve.
He also paid tribute to outgoing CEO Bob Iger, thanking him for his mentorship, friendship, and the lasting impact of his leadership during a pivotal time in Disney’s history.
Disney Board Chairman James Gorman echoed those sentiments, offering heartfelt thanks to Iger on behalf of the entire Board. Gorman explained that Iger was asked to return as CEO in 2022 for two crucial reasons: to guide Disney through a challenging period of change, and to help prepare the next generation of leadership.
According to the Board, Iger delivered on both fronts – steering Disney through a major transformation while strengthening the company’s foundations for the future. After nearly two decades at the helm, the “Iger era” has been defined by extraordinary growth, a relentless focus on creative excellence and innovation, and outstanding stewardship of one of the world’s most iconic entertainment brands.
Smiles included…
Jamie
