The wait is finally over. On February 3, 2026, the Disney Board of Directors made the announcement fans and investors have been craving: The new Disney chief is officially Josh D’Amaro.
Effective March 18, 2026, D’Amaro will take the lead of the world’s most famous entertainment company, succeeding Bob Iger after a long and careful search. For many, this move isn’t just a simple promotion—it’s the arrival of a “Strategic Savior” who knows exactly how to keep the Disney magic alive in a high-tech world.
Who is The New Disney Chief?
Josh D’Amaro isn’t a newcomer to the house that Mickey built. He is a 28-year veteran who started his journey at the Disneyland Resort back in 1998. Before being named the new Disney chief, D’Amaro spent the last several years as the Chairman of Disney Experiences.
In that role, he was the mastermind behind the company’s most profitable branch, managing theme parks, cruise lines, and resorts. He is famous for his “boots on the ground” leadership style—often seen walking through the parks and taking selfies with “Cast Members” (employees) and guests alike.
Why Disney Chose Josh D’Amaro as CEO
The selection process was rigorous. After the turbulent era under Bob Chapek, the board wanted a leader who could balance massive profits with creative soul.
Disney selected D’Amaro because:
Financial Success: His division brought in a record $36 billion in revenue in 2025.
Institutional Knowledge: He has held leadership roles in finance, marketing, and operations.
The “Iger” Seal of Approval: Bob Iger himself called D’Amaro an “exceptional leader” with an instinctive understanding of the Disney brand.
What This Means for Disney’s Future
As the new Disney chief, D’Amaro isn’t just maintaining the status quo. He is stepping in with a bold vision for growth. Alongside him, Dana Walden has been named the President and Chief Creative Officer, forming a “dream team” that covers both physical experiences and digital storytelling.
1. Massive Park Expansions
D’Amaro is already the architect of a $60 billion expansion plan. Expect more immersive lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the highly anticipated Disneyland Abu Dhabi, set to be a cornerstone of his early legacy.
2. AI and Modern Storytelling
D’Amaro has a clear stance on tech: it should enhance, not replace, human creativity. Under his watch, expect Disney to lean into its $1 billion partnership with OpenAI. This means characters that can interact with you in real-time and even more breathtaking animation on Disney+.
3. Stability and Morale
Perhaps most importantly, the new Disney chief is seen as a healer. He understands that Disney’s strength comes from its people. His approachable nature is expected to boost employee morale, which is vital for maintaining the “guest magic” that sets Disney apart from competitors.
The Challenges Ahead
Being the new Disney chief isn’t all pixie dust. D’Amaro faces a cooling international tourism market and the high pressure of making streaming consistently profitable. However, with Bob Iger remaining as a Senior Advisor through the end of 2026, D’Amaro has a steady hand to guide him through the transition.
“Disney’s strength has always come from our people and the creative excellence that defines our stories,” D’Amaro stated upon his appointment.
Conclusion: A Bright Future
The appointment of the new Disney chief marks the start of a chapter focused on innovation and “Operational Excellence.” Josh D’Amaro has the rare ability to look at a spreadsheet and a storybook and see the same thing: opportunity. For Disney fans, the “Savior” has arrived, and the future of the magic looks brighter than ever.
