Disney names Josh D’Amaro as its next company CEO, to succeed Bob Iger
Disney has announced the successor to CEO Bob Iger. The search for the next leader of the world’s most famous entertainment empire concluded after the Walt Disney Company officially named Josh D’Amaro, the current Chairman of Disney Experiences, as its next chief executive. D’Amaro will step into the role on March 18 and replace Iger, who returned from retirement in 2022 to stabilise the company’s turbulent corporate governance.According to a report by CNBC, the appointment marks important for Disney as the company has struggled to solidify its post-Iger leadership. This is the second time in six years that the board has selected a successor for Iger; the previous choice, Bob Chapek, was ousted in 2022, leading to Iger’s unexpected return. To ensure a smoother transition, Iger will remain with the company as a senior advisor and board member until his final retirement date on December 31, 2026.“Josh D’Amaro is an exceptional leader and the right person to become our next CEO. He has an instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand, and a deep understanding of what resonates with our audiences, paired with the rigor and attention to detail required to deliver some of our most ambitious projects. His ability to combine creativity with operational excellence is exemplary and I am thrilled for Josh and the company,” said Iger.D’Amaro, 54, has served as Chairman of the Disney Experiences segment since 2020, and prior to that was President of Walt Disney World Resort. He joined the company in 1998 at Disneyland Resort.
What Josh D’Amaro said on his appointment as Disney CEO
Te incoming CEO D’Amaro thanked the company and Iger for his mentorship and friendship.“I am immensely grateful to the Board for entrusting me with leading a company that means so much to me and millions around the world. Disney’s strength has always come from our people and the creative excellence that defines our stories and experiences. 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. I also want to express my gratitude to Bob Iger for his generous mentorship, his friendship, and the profound impact of his leadership.”
Disney restructures other leadership roles
Meanwhile, Dana Walden, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment, has been named president and chief creative officer of The Walt Disney Company, also effective March 18. As Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, Walden has led Disney’s world-renowned, award-winning entertainment media, news, and content businesses globally, including Disney’s streaming businesses.
