D'Amaro Replaces Chapek as Head of Disney Parks

May 18, 2020, 4:03 PM · The Walt Disney Company today promoted Walt Disney World President Josh D’Amaro to succeed Disney CEO Bob Chapek as the head of its Disney Parks, Experiences and Products segment. In addition, Disneyland President Rebecca Campbell has been moved out of the parks division and promoted to chairman of Disney's Direct-to-Consumer and International segment.

"Our company is very fortunate to have a deep bench of talent and we’re extremely pleased to welcome these two exceptionally qualified Disney veterans to our senior management team," Chapek said. "Both Josh and Rebecca have more than two decades of leadership experience with the Company, a keen understanding of our brands and businesses, and a shared passion and vision for delivering extraordinary entertainment and one-of-a-kind experiences."

D'Amaro only recently assumed the top job in Orlando, having served before that as President of the Disneyland Resort in California. Former Disney Signature Experiences President Jeff Vahle replaces D'Amaro in Orlando, while Consumer Products President Ken Potrock takes over in Anaheim.

Thomas Mazloum, Senior Vice President of Resort and Transportation Operations at Walt Disney World Resort, takes over now for Vahle at Disney Signature Experiences, while Kareem Daniel from WDI's Operations/Product Creation/Publishing/Games division replaces Potrock at Consumer Products.

"I want to thank Bob for giving me this opportunity, and I look forward to following his record of driving innovation, value and growth at Parks," D’Amaro said. "I am honored to be able to lead this newly announced team of exceptional senior leaders as we assume our new roles and continue to deliver unforgettable experiences for our guests. Even during this challenging time, the enthusiasm of our dedicated cast members for what we do is unwavering, and my goal is to bring them back to work as soon as possible so they can continue to create that magic."

The rest of the executive leadership team at Disney Parks remains:

Shanghai Disneyland reopened last week, but Disney's 11 other theme parks around the world remain closed until further notice as a result of the pandemic. Walt Disney World's Disney Springs shopping area begins the first phase of its reopening on Wednesday.

Replies (4)

May 19, 2020 at 3:18 AM

The day has finally come, when all of those kids named Josh and Justin are working professionals.

Names come and go in cycles. I can't wait for all of the young Helens, Margarets, and Bonnies to grow up and get jobs.

May 19, 2020 at 10:00 AM

I'm waiting for TH to comment about Chapek since he doesn't look to be returning to head the parks, and isn't really in charge of Disney right now either.

May 19, 2020 at 11:34 AM

"The day has finally come, when all of those kids named Josh and Justin are working professionals."
Josh D'Amaro has been working for Disney for over 20 years haha.

May 19, 2020 at 12:04 PM

Does D’Amaro's omnipresent personal photographer get a raise?

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