The Walt Disney Company has officially confirmed Josh D’Amaro, the current Chairman of Disney Experiences, as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective March 18, 2026. This significant announcement comes after a unanimous vote by the Disney Board of Directors, marking a pivotal moment for the entertainment giant as Bob Iger prepares to transition out of his leadership role. Simultaneously, Dana Walden, who has served as Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, will take on the newly created position of President and Chief Creative Officer, reporting directly to D’Amaro.
D’Amaro, 54, brings an impressive 28-year tenure with Disney to the CEO’s office. His journey through the company has seen him lead some of its most critical divisions, most notably as President of Walt Disney World Resort before ascending to Chairman of Disney Experiences in 2020. In his current capacity, D’Amaro oversees an expansive portfolio that includes 12 theme parks, 57 resort hotels worldwide, the Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Walt Disney Imagineering, and Disney Consumer Products. This powerhouse division generated a staggering $36 billion in annual revenue in fiscal year 2025 and employs 185,000 dedicated Cast Members globally.
Under D’Amaro’s leadership, Disney Experiences has seen considerable innovation and growth. He notably spearheaded the development of fan-favorite attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Avengers Campus, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and the enchanting World of Frozen. He’s also currently overseeing major expansion projects at flagship locations such as Magic Kingdom, Disney Hollywood Studios, and Disneyland Resort, indicating a clear commitment to bolstering the company’s core park business.
James Gorman, Chairman of the Disney Board of Directors, lauded D’Amaro’s selection, stating, “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.” Gorman particularly highlighted D’Amaro’s proven track record of bringing entertainment properties to life within the parks, seamlessly blending storytelling with cutting-edge technology.
Bob Iger, who returned as CEO in 2022 to guide the company through a complex restructuring, expressed strong confidence in his successor. “Josh D’Amaro is an exceptional leader and the right person to become our next CEO,” Iger commented. “He has an instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand, and a deep understanding of what resonates with our audiences, paired with the rigor and attention to detail required to deliver some of our most ambitious projects.” Iger will continue to serve as a Senior Advisor and Board member until his full retirement on December 31, 2026. His recent tenure focused on improving film studio output, achieving streaming profitability, positioning ESPN as a digital sports destination, and expanding Disney Experiences.
Dana Walden’s elevation to President and Chief Creative Officer signifies Disney’s emphasis on creative content. In her new role, she will oversee storytelling and creative expression across all of Disney’s diverse businesses. Iger praised her, noting, “Dana Walden is an excellent leader who commands tremendous respect from the creative community. Given that creativity is at the heart of everything Disney does, she is a wonderful choice to serve in this new leadership role.” This move seems strategically sound, ensuring a unified creative vision under the new CEO.
D’Amaro himself shared his appreciation, stating, “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. Disney’s strength has always come from our people and the creative excellence that defines our stories and experiences.” He also extended his gratitude to Iger for his “generous mentorship, his friendship, and the profound impact of his leadership.”
The succession planning process was rigorous, with the Board’s Succession Planning Committee, formed in January 2023, meticulously evaluating both internal and external candidates. This multi-year effort included mentorship from Iger, external coaching, and engagement with Board directors for both D’Amaro and Walden, indicating a well-prepared transition. Other key leaders, including Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman and ESPN Chairman James Pitaro, will maintain their current roles, providing stability during this leadership shift. Disney’s fiscal year 2025 saw the company generate a robust $94.4 billion in annual revenue across its Entertainment, Sports, and Experiences segments, setting a high bar for the incoming leadership.
