A New Chapter for the Global Entertainment Leader
Josh D'Amaro's Ascent to Chief Executive Officer
Josh D'Amaro, formerly at the helm of Disney's experiences division, has been officially named the new Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. His promotion was announced on a Tuesday morning, highlighting his proven leadership in a crucial segment of the business. D'Amaro's extensive experience and deep understanding of the Disney brand are expected to guide the company's future trajectory. He will also join the company's board of directors, effective March 18, 2026, the same day as Disney's annual meeting.
Dana Walden Named President and Chief Creative Officer
In a parallel significant move, Dana Walden has been elevated to the role of President and Chief Creative Officer. This appointment positions Walden at the forefront of Disney's creative endeavors, ensuring that the company's renowned storytelling remains central to its global strategy. Her leadership is anticipated to foster a renewed focus on innovative content across all platforms.
The Board's Vision for Future Leadership
James Gorman, chairman of Disney's board of directors, expressed strong confidence in D'Amaro's appointment. He lauded D'Amaro's blend of inspiring leadership, innovative spirit, strategic growth acumen, and profound passion for the Disney brand. Gorman emphasized D'Amaro's clear vision for the company's future and his deep appreciation for the creative essence that distinguishes Disney in the dynamic entertainment landscape. His impressive track record in business achievement and collaborations with top entertainment figures, particularly in integrating Disney's narratives with cutting-edge technology in the parks, were key factors in the board's decision. The board believes D'Amaro is exceptionally prepared to lead the global enterprise, serving consumers worldwide and generating long-term shareholder value.
Transitioning from Bob Iger's Legacy
D'Amaro's appointment marks the second time Bob Iger steps down from the CEO position, three years after his return in 2022. Iger, who previously led Disney from 2005 to 2020, praised D'Amaro as an exceptional leader with an intuitive grasp of the Disney brand and a keen understanding of audience preferences. He highlighted D'Amaro's meticulous approach to delivering ambitious projects and his exemplary ability to merge creativity with operational excellence, expressing his excitement for both D'Amaro and the company's future.
The Succession Process: A Contrasting Approach
The selection of D'Amaro as CEO diverged significantly from the circumstances surrounding Bob Chapek's previous appointment. Chapek, also a veteran of the theme park division, succeeded Iger in 2020 in a move that surprised many. However, a challenging period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic ultimately led to Iger's unexpected return in late 2022. D'Amaro's ascension, in contrast, followed a transparent and rigorous multi-year succession evaluation, involving intense competition among internal candidates, including Dana Walden, and a thorough exploration of external options by the Disney board, chaired by James Gorman.
Expanding the Experiences Division: A Foundation for Success
Disney's unique position among entertainment giants is partly due to its robust experiences division, which serves as a significant financial driver and a complex operational entity. D'Amaro was instrumental in overseeing a massive $60 billion expansion in this sector, encompassing numerous new attractions inspired by popular intellectual properties, the launch of several new cruise ships, and even the development of a new theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi. His successful leadership in this division played a pivotal role in his selection to succeed Iger.
Prioritizing Storytelling and Creative Relationships
Despite his operational background, D'Amaro consistently underscored the importance of the studio, the company's creative core that fuels all other businesses. He articulated this vision in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, emphasizing Walt Disney's original concept of placing storytelling and content at the center, surrounded by various businesses designed to connect with consumers globally. Furthermore, D'Amaro has actively cultivated strong relationships with the company's creative talent, a distinction from his predecessor, Chapek.