The Walt Disney Company has officially confirmed that Josh D’Amaro will become its next Chief Executive Officer. Following a unanimous vote by the Board of Directors, D’Amaro is set to succeed Bob Iger on March 18, 2026. This announcement concludes a multi-year search for a leader who can balance the company’s massive operational scale with the creative heart that defines the brand for millions of fans.

D’Amaro’s ascent to CEO is particularly notable for his deep-rooted connection to the Disney community. Since joining the company in 1998, he has held high-profile leadership roles including President of Disneyland Resort and President of Walt Disney World Resort. During his tenure, he became a familiar face in the parks, often seen walking the grounds to interact directly with guests and high-five Cast Members before park opening. This “boots-on-the-ground” approach has earned him a unique level of respect within the fan base, where he is frequently viewed as a leader who truly “gets” the Disney experience.

In a move to further solidify the company’s creative future, Disney also announced the promotion of Dana Walden to President and Chief Creative Officer. Walden, a powerhouse in the television and film industry, will work alongside D’Amaro to oversee the company’s global storytelling efforts. The pairing suggests a strategic focus on blending D’Amaro’s expertise in immersive physical experiences with Walden’s proven track record in content creation.

Outgoing CEO Bob Iger, who will move into a Senior Advisor role through the end of the year, highlighted D’Amaro’s “instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand” as a primary reason for the selection. For a company that has navigated significant leadership transitions in the past, the appointment of a 28-year veteran who is openly embraced by the fan community signals a commitment to stability and the preservation of the “Disney Magic” that fans have long championed.