Disney Names Josh D'Amaro Next CEO, $38M Pay Package
Disney Names Josh D'Amaro Next CEO, $38M Pay Package
Disney taps Josh D'Amaro as its next CEO with a $38 million pay package, signaling a measured leadership transition as Dana Walden expands oversight.
Disney on Wednesday announced Josh D'Amaro as its next chief executive, taking the helm March 18 as Bob Iger steps aside in a carefully staged transition. Iger said in a statement that D'Amaro, who will assume the top role as the company navigates a crowded slate of films, parks, and streaming, has "an instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand."
D'Amaro's pay package includes an annual base salary of $2.5 million and eligibility for an annual bonus with a target equal to 250% of that base. The details reflect a substantial incentive to steer the company through a pivotal period as it balances traditional film and theme parks with a shifting streaming landscape.
D'Amaro, previously the head of Disney's theme parks and consumer products division, will become Disney's chief executive, taking over from Iger after more than two decades at the helm. His deep experience with the company’s core consumer touchpoints underpins the transition expected to emphasize brand strength and guest experience across parks, media, and products.
Dana Walden, the TV chief, will add oversight of Disney's film studio operations in her role as president and chief creative officer, supervising film and TV production and distribution within the Disney Entertainment unit. ESPN is described as a dedicated sports island, underscoring ongoing focus in sports programming even as other units expand.
Analysts suggest the move signals continuity and a deliberate emphasis on the Disney brand and creative pipeline, as the company contends with streaming competition, theatrical performance, and the evolving fan experience across parks and content.
