Walt Disney Company has appointed Josh D’Amaro as its next chief executive officer, marking a major leadership transition for one of the world’s most influential travel and entertainment brands. D’Amaro will succeed Bob Iger on March 18, following a unanimous vote by Disney’s board of directors.
D’Amaro currently serves as chairman of Disney Experiences, the company’s largest and most travel-centric business segment. The division includes Disney’s global portfolio of theme parks, resort hotels, cruise ships, vacation clubs, and guided tour businesses. In Disney’s most recent fiscal quarter, Experiences surpassed $10 billion in revenue for the first time, underscoring the strategic importance of parks, hospitality, and cruising to the company’s future growth.
During his 28-year career at Disney, D’Amaro has held leadership roles across Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World, earning a reputation for blending operational discipline with guest-focused innovation. His appointment signals a continued emphasis on immersive, destination-driven experiences at a time when experiential travel remains a key driver of consumer demand.
Alongside the CEO transition, Dana Walden will step into a newly created role as president and chief creative officer, reinforcing Disney’s intent to closely align creativity with execution. Iger will move into a senior advisory role through the end of the year, formally retiring on December 31.
For the travel industry, D’Amaro’s promotion highlights Disney’s long-term bet on parks, resorts, and cruise experiences as central pillars of its global strategy.
