Credit: HubSpot Live
The Walt Disney Company has officially named Josh D’Amaro as its next Chief Executive Officer. The decision was announced February 3, with D’Amaro set to take over on March 18 at the annual shareholder meeting. Bob Iger will remain as a senior advisor until retiring at the end of the year.
D’Amaro, 54, has spent 28 years at Disney and currently leads Disney Experiences the massive parks, cruises, resorts, and Imagineering division that has become the company’s strongest profit engine. From post pandemic attendance surges to global park expansion and new cruise investments, his division has quietly carried Disney through a turbulent media period.
From what I’ve seen, this move signals continuity. Instead of experimenting with an outsider or a co-CEO structure, Disney is betting on a leader who already understands how the company runs at scale.
Why the Board Chose D’Amaro
Board Chairman James Gorman praised D’Amaro’s operational leadership and connection to Disney’s “creative essence.” That’s important, because while movies and streaming get the headlines, the parks business brings in reliable cash flow year after year.
D’Amaro also oversaw Imagineering and licensing partnerships, blending creativity with execution, a combination the board clearly values after past leadership turbulence.
At the same time, Dana Walden will step into a president and chief creative officer role, overseeing entertainment and streaming. That pairing suggests Disney wants strong operations and strong storytelling at the top.
The Challenge Waiting for Him
D’Amaro steps into the role as linear TV declines and streaming competition intensifies. Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN’s digital future will demand as much attention as theme parks and resorts.
I think the real test for him will be how well he balances the creative side of Disney with the operational discipline that made the parks division so successful.
Bob Iger called D’Amaro someone who understands the “Disney magic” while still thinking like an operator. Investors seemed to agree, shares ticked up after the announcement.
What do you think about Disney’s leadership change? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
