Disney Names Parks Chief Josh D’Amaro as New CEO, Succeeding Bob Iger Next Month

Josh D'Amaro has been named the next CEO of The Walt Disney Company, officially set to replace Bob Iger next month, bringing an end to years of speculation over Disney’s leadership succession.

Disney announced Tuesday that D’Amaro, who currently oversees the company’s global parks and experiences division, will assume the role on March 18 following Disney’s annual shareholders meeting. Iger will remain on as a senior adviser and board member through the end of his contract on December 31.

Alongside the CEO announcement, Disney confirmed that Dana Walden, who leads Disney’s TV and streaming operations, will become president and chief creative officer — a newly created position described by the company as a historic first. In that role, Walden will oversee storytelling and creative strategy across Disney’s platforms while reporting directly to D’Amaro.

Iger praised his successor in a statement, calling D’Amaro an exceptional leader with a deep understanding of the Disney brand and the operational discipline needed to deliver ambitious projects.

D’Amaro’s promotion highlights the growing importance of Disney’s parks and experiences business, which has become one of the company’s strongest revenue drivers. Disney is currently investing tens of billions of dollars into expanding theme parks and cruise operations, including plans for its first new theme park in 15 years in Abu Dhabi.

The 54-year-old executive is well known among Disney fans for frequently visiting parks and spotlighting cast members on social media. He has led Disney’s Experiences division since 2020 and has played a central role in the company’s push toward immersive, in-person entertainment.

Iger previously stepped down in 2020, handing leadership to Bob Chapek before returning in 2022 following internal turmoil. Disney leadership said this transition reflects Iger’s confidence that the next generation of executives is ready to lead.

Disney Chairman James Gorman said Iger felt retiring sooner rather than later was the right move, noting that he had helped develop strong leadership talent within the company.

With D’Amaro stepping into the CEO role and Walden taking on expanded creative responsibilities, Disney is signaling a renewed focus on blending operational growth with storytelling as it enters its next chapter.

Credit: CNN Newsource

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