Walt Disney Co (NYSE:DIS, XETRA:WDP) has announced that Josh D’Amaro will become its next CEO, starting in mid March, succeeding longtime CEO Bob Iger.
The decision follows a three-year board-led search for Iger’s successor. D’Amaro, who has been with Disney for 28 years, will also join the company’s board following the annual meeting.
D’Amaro currently serves as chairman of Disney Experiences, the company’s largest business segment, which reported $36 billion in revenue and employs 185,000 people worldwide in fiscal 2025.
In this role, he has overseen global theme parks, resorts, Disney Cruise Line, consumer products, and Imagineering. He has guided the division through pandemic reopenings and expansions, including new lands unveiled at D23 events.
Disney’s board pointed to D’Amaro’s combination of operational experience, strategic insight, and familiarity with the Disney brand as key factors in the decision.
“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,” said James Gorman, board chairman. “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.”
Bob Iger, who will remain on the board and serve as Senior Advisor until his retirement at the end of 2026, praised D’Amaro’s understanding of Disney’s audiences and his ability to balance creativity with operational execution.
D’Amaro, a Disney veteran since 1998, said he is “immensely grateful to the Board for entrusting me with leading a company that means so much to me and millions around the world.” “There is no limit to what Disney can achieve, and I am excited to work with our teams across the company and brilliant creative partners to honor Disney’s remarkable legacy while continuing to innovate, grow, and deliver exceptional value for our consumers and shareholders,” D’Amaro said.
Concurrent with D’Amaro’s appointment, Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, will become president and chief creative officer. In this newly created role, Walden will oversee storytelling and creative initiatives across the company and report directly to D’Amaro.
Shares of Disney traded down 1.8% at about $103 following the announcement.