By Lillie Liska
The Walt Disney Company announced today that Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro will replace Robert Iger as the entertainment giant’s CEO, effective March 18.
The announcement comes following a unanimous vote by the Walt Disney Company Board of Directors on Monday. D’Amaro takes over from Iger who served in the position for nearly two decades cumulatively.
“Josh D’Amaro possesses that rare combination of inspiring leadership and innovation, a keen eye for strategic growth opportunities, and a deep passion for the Disney brand and its people – all of which make him the right person to take the helm as Disney’s next CEO,” said James Gorman, Chairman of The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors. “Throughout this search process, Josh has demonstrated a strong vision for the company’s future and a deep understanding of the creative spirit that makes Disney unique in an ever-changing marketplace. He has an outstanding record of business achievement, collaborating with some of the biggest names in entertainment to bring their stories to life in our parks, showcasing the power of combining Disney storytelling with cutting-edge technology. The Board believes he is exceptionally well prepared to guide this global company forward to serve our consumers around the world and create long-term value for shareholders.”
Related: Will the Next Disney CEO Continue Walt Disney’s Legacy?
“Josh D’Amaro is an exceptional leader and the right person to become our next CEO,” added Iger. “He has an instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand, and a deep understanding of what resonates with our audiences, paired with the rigor and attention to detail required to deliver some of our most ambitious projects. His ability to combine creativity with operational excellence is exemplary and I am thrilled for Josh and the company.”
D’Amaro, who has been with the company in various positions since 1998, will step into the new role at Disney’s annual meeting on March 18.
The announcement also revealed that Dana Walden, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, will become the President and Chief Creative Officer of the Walt Disney Company, also effective March 18. She will report to D’Amaro directly.
“I am immensely grateful to the Board for entrusting me with leading a company that means so much to me and millions around the world,” said D’Amaro. “Disney’s strength has always come from our people and the creative excellence that defines our stories and experiences. There is no limit to what Disney can achieve, and I am excited to work with our teams across the company and brilliant creative partners to honor Disney’s remarkable legacy while continuing to innovate, grow, and deliver exceptional value for our consumers and shareholders. I also want to express my gratitude to Bob Iger for his generous mentorship, his friendship, and the profound impact of his leadership.”
Iger will continue to serve as a senior advisor and board member until the end of the year, AP reported.
“D’Amaro will be tasked with tapping into Disney’s vast collection of intellectual property to help create successful movies and theme park additions, while also pushing for streaming growth and continuing to build up its sports business,” AP said of what D’Amaro’s future as CEO holds.
Hopefully, he looks at the recent success of family-friendly flick ZOOTOPIA 2 and prioritizes content that all audiences can enjoy, without the agenda-driven messaging that caused Disney to struggle in recent years.
Read Next: ZOOTOPIA 2 Rocked Streaming, and It’s Not Even on Disney+ Yet
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