Josh D’Amaro has been officially named the new CEO of The Walt Disney Company, marking a major leadership transition as Bob Iger prepares to leave, reports Baltimore Chronicle via Axios. D’Amaro, who has been with Disney since 1998, most recently served as chairman of Disney Experiences, overseeing the company’s theme parks, cruises, video games, and consumer products divisions. His appointment comes after a careful succession process led by Disney board chair James Gorman.
James Gorman praised D’Amaro’s leadership, stating he brings “a 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,” positioning him as the ideal candidate to steer Disney into its next era. Bob Iger also expressed confidence in D’Amaro, calling him “an exceptional leader and the right person to become our next CEO.”
D’Amaro’s career at Disney spans over two decades, with extensive experience managing the company’s theme parks globally. Under his guidance, Disney expanded its presence to the Middle East with a park under construction in Abu Dhabi, and he has significantly grown the cruise line business. Additionally, he played a key role in Disney’s investment in Epic Games, integrating Disney characters into Fortnite, demonstrating his ability to combine traditional media with digital innovation.
This leadership change marks Iger’s second planned departure from the CEO role. He initially stepped down in 2020 after a 15-year tenure, passing the position to Bob Chapek. Chapek was later dismissed in 2022, prompting Iger’s return. Throughout his leadership, Iger established Disney as a global entertainment powerhouse through major acquisitions such as Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, and launched Disney+, while also expanding Disney’s international footprint with ventures like Shanghai Disney and the Middle East projects.
D’Amaro will officially assume the CEO role on March 18 during Disney’s annual meeting. Alongside this announcement, Dana Walden has been appointed president and chief creative officer. Iger will remain at Disney until the end of the year to facilitate a smooth transition and reportedly plans to dedicate more time to personal endeavors, including his superyacht and projects with his wife Willow Bay related to Angel City FC, according to the Wall Street Journal.
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