The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) announced that Josh D’Amaro will become CEO on March 18, succeeding Bob Iger.
D’Amaro, who is also joining the board of directors, has served as chairman of the Disney Experiences segment since 2020, where he oversees 12 theme parks and 57 resort hotels worldwide. Before taking that position, he was president of Walt Disney World Resort. Earlier in his career, he was president of Disneyland Resort.
Iger, who served as chief executive from 2005 to 2020 and returned to the job in 2022, will continue to serve as senior advisor and a member of the Disney board until his retirement from the company on Dec. 31.
Disney has one of the most extensive real estate portfolios among the world’s major corporations. In addition to its theme parks and resort hotels, the company owns and operates an extensive network of retail properties, office parks, and residential communities. Its latest real estate project is a 103-acre, 1,369-unit multifamily development near Orland that is being planned in partnership with The Michaels Organization.
“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 – all of which make him the right person to take the helm as Disney’s next CEO,” said James Gorman, chairman of the board of directors. “Throughout this search process, Josh has demonstrated a strong vision for the company’s future and a deep understanding of the creative spirit that makes Disney unique in an ever-changing marketplace. He has an outstanding record of business achievement, collaborating with some of the biggest names in entertainment to bring their stories to life in our parks, showcasing the power of combining Disney storytelling with cutting-edge technology. The board believes he is exceptionally well prepared to guide this global company forward to serve our consumers around the world and create long-term value for shareholders.”
