The Walt Disney Co. announced that Josh D'Amaro, the current chairman of Disney Experiences overseeing theme parks, will succeed Bob Iger as CEO on March 18, 2026. According to CBS News, D'Amaro will lead a company with more than $90 billion in annual revenue and approximately 185,000 employees worldwide.
Key Takeaways
The Walt Disney Co. has named Josh D'Amaro, currently head of its theme parks division, as CEO effective March 18, 2026. He succeeds Bob Iger and will lead a company with $90 billion in annual revenue amid challenges attracting foreign visitors to its parks.
- Josh D'Amaro appointed Disney's new CEO, succeeding Bob Iger on March 18, 2026
- D'Amaro currently oversees Disney's theme parks and resorts, a key profit driver for the company
- Disney stock has dropped over 10% year-to-date amid investor concerns about streaming losses and park attendance
- Dana Walden named president and chief creative officer to complement D'Amaro's operational strengths
Reuters reports that D'Amaro's stewardship of Disney's lucrative theme parks business, which represented 57% of last year's profit at $17.5 billion, played a significant role in his promotion. The company faces challenges such as declining television viewership and competition from digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
D'Amaro takes over amid ongoing struggles to attract foreign visitors to Disney parks. CNBC notes that the company's stock is down more than 10% year-to-date, reflecting investor concerns about streaming losses and park attendance. Iger returned as CEO in 2022 following the departure of Bob Chapek after a period marked by clashes and weaker financial performance.
CBS News reports that Disney formed a succession planning committee in 2023 to vet candidates for Iger's successor. In addition to D'Amaro's appointment, Dana Walden was named president and chief creative officer of Disney effective March 18. Reuters highlights the importance of the partnership between D'Amaro and Walden in guiding Disney through a rapidly changing media landscape.
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