Disney Appoints New Disneyland President and Experiences Chairman
The Walt Disney Company has announced a significant leadership transition within its experiences division. Thomas Mazloum, who has served as president of the Disneyland Resort for just over a year, is set to take on the role of chairman for Disney Experiences. He succeeds Josh D’Amaro, who will step into the position of Disney’s CEO following the company’s annual meeting.
New Leadership at Disney Experiences
In a statement, D’Amaro expressed confidence in Mazloum’s leadership capabilities. He noted Mazloum’s exceptional leadership, international experience, and dedication to service excellence. Mazloum will officially assume his new position next Wednesday, coinciding with Bob Iger’s handover to the next generation of leadership.
Background of Thomas Mazloum
Before his role at Disneyland, Mazloum was president of Disney Signature Experiences. This division includes Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii. His experience equips him well to lead Disney Experiences into its next chapter.
Senior Leadership Changes
Alongside Mazloum’s promotion, several other key appointments have been announced:
- Jill Estorino: Appointed president of Disneyland Resort, previously held the role of president of Disney Parks International.
- Tasia Filippatos: Taking over as president of Disney Parks International after serving as president of Disney Consumer Products.
- Lisa Baldzicki: Promoted to president of Disney Consumer Products, having worked as head of parks product development & retail.
D’Amaro highlighted the strength of the team, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining Disney’s momentum globally. He noted, “Together, they will continue to build on our momentum around the world, delivering the service, creativity, and one-of-a-kind experiences that define Disney.”
Disney Experiences Division Overview
The experiences division of Disney is a crucial aspect that sets the company apart in the entertainment sector. It encompasses theme parks in California, Florida, France, China, and Japan. The division also includes a growing cruise line, vacation clubs, and luxury travel experiences, making it a formidable presence in the market.
Financial Performance
In fiscal 2025, Disney Experiences reported impressive figures:
- Revenue: $36.2 billion
- Operating Income: $10 billion
This success is greater than that of Disney’s entertainment and sports divisions combined. To further this growth, Disney plans to invest $60 billion by 2033, focusing on new attractions, hotels, and cruise ships.
As Mazloum steps into this vital leadership role, the focus will be on executing the ambitious expansion strategy initiated by D’Amaro. The company is poised for considerable growth, aiming to deliver world-class experiences to guests worldwide.
