Josh D’Amaro Named New Disney CEO: A New Era Begins

Josh D’Amaro Named New Disney CEO: What This Means for the Company

The Walt Disney Company, a global leader in entertainment and imagination, is preparing for a transformative leadership change. On March 18, 2026, Josh D’Amaro will officially become Disney’s Chief Executive Officer, succeeding the legendary Bob Iger. This transition is the result of a carefully planned succession strategy, reflecting Disney’s commitment to long-term growth and innovation.

Josh D’Amaro’s appointment as Disney CEO is a pivotal moment for the company. Having spent 28 years with Disney, D’Amaro brings unparalleled operational expertise and a deep understanding of the brand’s creative essence. Currently serving as Chairman of Disney Experiences, he oversees a vast portfolio that includes 12 theme parks, 57 resort hotels, Disney Cruise Line, and numerous consumer products. Under his leadership, this segment generated $36 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2025 and employed approximately 185,000 people worldwide.

Josh D’Amaro’s Journey to the Top

Josh D’Amaro joined Disney in 1998 and has steadily risen through the ranks by demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic vision. His tenure has been marked by the successful launch of groundbreaking projects such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Avengers Campus, and the World of Frozen. These immersive experiences have redefined theme park entertainment and contributed significantly to Disney’s global appeal.

In addition to managing existing assets, D’Amaro has championed future expansions, including a new Monsters, Inc.-themed land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and an Avatar-themed destination at Disneyland Resort. Plans for a new Disney park in Abu Dhabi further underscore his commitment to expanding Disney’s international presence.

James Gorman, Chairman of Disney’s Board, praised D’Amaro’s leadership qualities, highlighting his unique blend of innovation, strategic insight, and passion for the Disney brand. Outgoing CEO Bob Iger echoed these sentiments, emphasizing D’Amaro’s ability to combine creativity with operational excellence.

Introducing Dana Walden: Disney’s First President and Chief Creative Officer

Alongside D’Amaro’s appointment, Disney has named Dana Walden as its first-ever President and Chief Creative Officer. This historic role underscores the company’s dedication to fostering creative innovation while maintaining operational strength.

Walden, who joined Disney following the 2019 acquisition of Fox, has an impressive track record in entertainment leadership. She has overseen hit television shows like *Only Murders in the Building*, *Abbott Elementary*, *American Horror Story*, and *The Bear*. In her new role, Walden will manage all of Disney’s entertainment content, including film, television, Hulu, Disney+, and marketing, reporting directly to D’Amaro.

Her appointment reflects a strategic move to ensure that Disney’s creative vision remains at the forefront of its business operations. With a compensation package valued at $24 million, Walden’s leadership is expected to drive the company’s storytelling and content creation to new heights.

Bob Iger’s Legacy and Continued Influence

Bob Iger’s impact on Disney has been profound and far-reaching. Returning as CEO in 2022 after a previous tenure from 2005 to 2020, Iger guided Disney through a period of significant industry disruption. His leadership focused on restructuring the company, empowering creative teams, and restoring financial discipline.

Iger’s strategic priorities included strengthening Disney’s film studios, achieving profitability in streaming services, enhancing ESPN’s digital presence, and accelerating growth across Disney Experiences. Although stepping down as CEO, Iger will remain a Senior Advisor and board member until his retirement at the end of 2026, ensuring a smooth transition and continued guidance.

The Future of Disney Under New Leadership

The new leadership structure at Disney is designed to balance operational expertise with creative innovation. Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, will report to Dana Walden, while ESPN remains a standalone unit under Jimmy Pitaro, who reports directly to D’Amaro. This arrangement allows Disney to retain strong leadership across its diverse business segments.

The Board’s Succession Planning Committee undertook a multi-year process to prepare for this transition, including mentorship from Bob Iger, external coaching, and direct engagement with board members. This thorough approach ensures continuity, stability, and a clear strategic direction as Disney enters its next chapter.

As the entertainment landscape evolves rapidly, Disney’s new leadership team faces both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. With D’Amaro’s operational acumen and Walden’s creative vision, the company is well-positioned to honor its storied legacy while embracing innovation and growth.

Conclusion

Josh D’Amaro’s appointment as Disney CEO marks the beginning of a promising new era for The Walt Disney Company. Supported by Dana Walden’s creative leadership, Disney is set to continue its tradition of storytelling excellence and operational success. As fans and investors alike look forward to the future, this leadership transition signals a commitment to innovation, growth, and the magic that defines Disney.

Stay tuned for more updates on Disney’s exciting journey ahead and discover how these leadership changes will shape the future of entertainment. Don’t miss out—subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and insights on Disney’s evolving story!