Bob Iger Exits Stage; Disney Parks Chief Emerges as Potential CEO
Bob Iger is set to step down as CEO of Disney, creating speculation about his successor. Josh D’Amaro, currently the head of Disney Parks, is the frontrunner to take over the executive position. He has overseen the division responsible for generating significant profits for the company since 2020.
Leadership Transition at Disney
Josh D’Amaro’s candidacy for CEO comes as Disney’s board prepares for an upcoming vote. Notably, he stepped into his current role during a turbulent period. In 2020, former CEO Bob Chapek took over after Iger. Chapek’s tenure faced numerous challenges, particularly due to the pandemic, which forced park closures and internal conflicts.
Potential Successors
While D’Amaro is viewed as a strong candidate, he is not the only name in consideration. Other potential successors include:
- Dana Walden
- Alan Bergman
- Jimmy Pitaro
A spokesperson for Disney clarified that the board has not yet made a final decision regarding the new CEO. The announcement will be made once a choice is confirmed.
Josh D’Amaro’s Background
Having joined Disney in 1998, D’Amaro has a wealth of experience. He has held leadership roles in California, Hong Kong, and Florida resorts. As president of Disney Experience, he leads a significant investment plan worth $60 billion to expand resorts and is also managing plans to double the fleet of Disney cruise ships.
Additionally, D’Amaro was involved in acquiring a stake in Epic Games, amounting to a notable investment of $1.5 billion in February 2024.
Financial Context
The potential shift in leadership aligns with the release of Disney’s fiscal first-quarter results for 2026, covering the period from October to December. Analysts expect the company to report earnings per share of $1.58, a decrease from the previous year’s $1.76. However, revenue is anticipated to rise to approximately $25.6 billion.
Shareholders are closely monitoring the strategic direction Disney will take in areas such as streaming services, park operations, and content creation. Should the board unanimously support D’Amaro, he could lead the company for the next three years.
