Walt Disney has announced Josh D’Amaro, the head of its theme park division, as the company’s next chief executive. He will replace Bob Iger and officially take on the role on March 18, 2026.
A Leader from Disney’s Most Profitable Division
D’Amaro has spent 28 years at Disney, starting at Disneyland Resort in 1998. He now leads Disney Experiences, which includes theme parks, resorts, cruise lines, and consumer products. This division employs 185,000 people and generated $36 billion in revenue last year.
Under his leadership, Disney opened major attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the World of Frozen. He also guided digital projects, including the company’s collaboration with the creators of Fortnite.
End of a Leadership Puzzle
The appointment ends years of uncertainty over Disney’s succession. Bob Iger has led the company for nearly two decades, except for a brief period that ended in 2022 when his successor was ousted. Iger returned to restructure the company, focusing on reducing costs in streaming, television, and film while expanding Disney’s parks and cruise lines.
Iger expressed pride in stepping aside, stating, “Disney’s future has never been brighter.”
Challenges Ahead
D’Amaro takes the helm during a challenging time for media companies. Disney has faced political criticism in the US, including pushback from Republicans over its perceived “woke” messaging.
The parks business has also drawn attention due to rising costs for visitors. Disney’s stock dipped 1% after the announcement, reflecting investor concern over the company’s broader media performance.
Leadership Team Updates
Alongside D’Amaro’s promotion, Dana Walden was named Chief Creative Officer. She will oversee content and creative strategy, reporting directly to the new CEO. Walden was considered a top contender for the CEO role, making her appointment a strategic balance for Disney.
Compensation and Outlook
D’Amaro will receive a $2.5 million base salary, Disney shares worth at least $26.3 million annually, and a $9.7 million bonus for 2026. Analysts note that while the parks division drives profits, Disney’s long-term success depends on strong content and smooth leadership transitions.
Paolo Pescatore, an industry analyst, said, “D’Amaro has proven his ability to elevate Disney Experiences. Still, he must focus on the company’s core strengths in media and content.”
