Josh D’Amaro Appointed Disney CEO; Dana Walden Becomes President and Chief Creative Officer
The Walt Disney Company has appointed Josh D’Amaro as its new CEO. D’Amaro, who previously served as chairman of Disney’s experiences division, will officially assume his role on March 18, coinciding with the company’s annual meeting. Alongside him, Dana Walden has been elevated to president and chief creative officer.
Leadership Changes at Disney
The announcement was disclosed by the company on Tuesday morning. D’Amaro’s elevation marks a significant transition as he succeeds Bob Iger, who is set to retire at the end of the year after guiding the company during challenging times. Both executives will join Disney’s board on March 18.
Endorsements from Key Figures
James Gorman, chairman of Disney’s board of directors, praised D’Amaro’s leadership qualities, highlighting his strategic vision and passion for the Disney brand. He stated, “Josh possesses a rare combination of inspiring leadership and innovation.” D’Amaro expressed gratitude for the opportunity and his commitment to advancing Disney’s legacy while fostering creativity and growth.
A Track Record of Success
D’Amaro has a solid background within the company. His leadership of a $60 billion expansion of the experiences division showcases his capability in managing large-scale projects. This includes the development of new attractions and cruise ships, paralleling Disney’s rich narrative tradition with cutting-edge technology.
Moreover, D’Amaro’s strong relationships with the creative teams have been emphasized as crucial for maintaining Disney’s storytelling legacy. Unlike his predecessor, D’Amaro has shown a commitment to nurturing these vital creative connections.
Focus on the Future
The appointment of both D’Amaro and Walden reflects a strategic move by the Disney board to retain top talent within the company. Walden, who has worked closely with the entertainment sector, will lead creative initiatives during a transformative period for Disney.
- New CEO: Josh D’Amaro
- New President and CCO: Dana Walden
- Effective Date: March 18
- Previous CEO: Bob Iger
- Expansion Oversight: $60 billion projects in experiences division
Conclusion
The transition in leadership signals a new chapter for Disney, emphasizing innovation and creative excellence. As the company prepares for its future, D’Amaro and Walden’s roles will be pivotal in navigating the challenges ahead while honoring Disney’s storied legacy.
