Josh D'Amaro Named New Disney CEO, Dana Walden President & Chief Creative Officer

Leadership Transition at The Walt Disney Company

• 👑 Josh D'Amaro has been appointed as the new CEO of The Walt Disney Company, succeeding Bob Iger.
• 💡 D'Amaro, 54, is described as having an instinctive appreciation for the brand and a rare combination of inspiring leadership and a keen eye for strategic growth.
• 🗓️ He officially steps into his new role on March 18th, after a century-long history of Disney CEOs.

D'Amaro's Extensive Disney Career

• 🚀 D'Amaro boasts a 28-year career with Disney, having joined in 1998 and steadily climbing the ranks.
• 🎢 Previously, as president of Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts, he managed a vast operation including 12 theme parks, 57 resort hotels, and a growing fleet of cruise ships.
• 🚢 The company plans to expand its cruise fleet to 13 ships by 2031, indicating continued growth in this sector.

Bob Iger's Retirement and New Role

• ⏳ Longtime CEO Bob Iger, 74, is set to retire at the end of the year, after leading Disney since 2005.
• 🤝 Iger has provided extensive mentorship to D'Amaro throughout the succession process.
• 🌟 Iger will continue to serve as a senior advisor to the company until his retirement.

Dana Walden's New Creative Leadership Role

• 🎬 Dana Walden, a veteran Disney executive, will partner with D'Amaro as president and chief creative officer in a newly created role.
• 📺 Under Walden's leadership, successful TV shows like "American Idol" and "The Bear" have been produced, and she was instrumental in bringing the Grammys to ABC.
• 💡 D'Amaro's strengths include showcasing the power of combining Disney storytelling with cutting-edge technology.