Disney’s Josh D’Amaro becomes CEO as company embarks on new chapter
Larissa Manoela and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts President Josh D’Amaro wave to the audience after Panel Disney Experiences during Day 2 of D23 Brazil: A Disney Experience at Transamerica Expo Center on November 09, 2024 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Ricardo Moreira | Getty Images
Disney A new chapter begins with the appointment of Josh D’Amaro as CEO of the media and theme park powerhouse.
D’Amaro most recently served as president of Disney Experiences, which includes the company’s theme parks, cruise lines, resorts and consumer products. He will officially replace Bob Iger as CEO at the company’s annual shareholder meeting on Wednesday.
The longtime Disney executive takes over after a period of uncertainty for the century-old company — including a closely watched succession race and a recent restructuring and turnaround — that has faced a mixed reaction from Wall Street.
Disney’s shares were down more than 10% year-over-year as of Tuesday’s close.
D’Amaro’s most immediate task will be to maintain momentum in Disney’s key growth areas. The company’s most recent quarterly earnings were boosted by theme parks and streaming, which are the focus of investors, industry peers and consumers.
The company has recently embarked on a major investment in theme parks, including the expansion of its Abu Dhabi theme park and resort, and has seen its broadcast business reach profitability for consecutive quarters.
Disney also returned to the top of the box office in 2025 with hits like “Lilo & Stitch,” “Zootopia” and “Avatar.”
welcome wagon
In this handout image provided by Disneyland Resort, Disney Experiences President Josh D’Amaro and The Walt Disney Company Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger speak during Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary celebration on July 17, 2025 in Anaheim, California.
Statement | Getty Images Entertainment | Getty Images
This is the second time in nearly six years that Iger has handed over the reins to a successor. He will remain a senior advisor and board member of Disney until his retirement from the company on December 31.
The experienced CEO led Disney twice at the top for nearly 20 years. In his first 15 years, Iger was responsible for some of its biggest acquisitions, including the entertainment assets of Marvel and Fox, and the launch of Disney+.
In Disney’s February announcement of D’Amaro’s appointment, Iger called D’Amaro “an extraordinary leader and the right person to be our next CEO.”
D’Amaro, 55, has been with Disney since 1998 and has held a variety of roles at the company. Under his leadership, Disney’s theme parks division became a driving force and revenue driver.
