Meet Josh D’Amaro: Key Facts About Disney’s New CEO
Josh D’Amaro is set to take over as the new CEO of Disney this week. He will officially step into the role on March 18 during the company’s annual shareholders meeting. This marks a significant transition, as he succeeds Bob Iger, who has had a notable tenure leading the 103-year-old corporation.
About Josh D’Amaro
- Experience: D’Amaro has a 28-year career at Disney. Before becoming CEO, he led the Disney Experiences division, covering theme parks, cruises, and consumer products.
- Age: He is 55 years old.
Key Achievements
Disney has labeled D’Amaro as the “architect of the largest global expansion” within Disney Experiences. He has played a pivotal role in enhancing the company’s financial performance, creativity, and guest satisfaction.
Leadership Style
D’Amaro is known for his ability to connect with people, a quality described as almost political. According to Variety, he makes others feel valued and understood. Friends and colleagues have noted his down-to-earth personality, with guests often seeking his attention in Disney parks.
Delegate and Detail-Oriented
Although D’Amaro is adept at delegating responsibilities, he remains very hands-on. He is known for his meticulous nature, focusing on even small details, such as the color of trash cans at Disneyland.
For instance, he personally visited Mattel’s headquarters to meet the product designers without any public relations team, showcasing his commitment to understanding the team’s dynamics and processes.
Receiving the CEO Role
When informed about his selection as CEO, D’Amaro expressed deep emotion. He described the moment as surreal, reflecting on the immense responsibility he was about to undertake.
Compensation Package
With his new role, D’Amaro’s compensation package is notable. It is projected to range between $38.5 million and $44.7 million annually. This includes a salary of $2.5 million, a possible cash bonus, and a significant stock grant upon his promotion.
Background
- Education: D’Amaro earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Georgetown University in 1993.
- Early Aspirations: He initially aimed for a career in art before realizing the financial uncertainties in that field.
- Personal Life: A resident of Coto de Caza, California, he is married with two children.
As Josh D’Amaro steps into his new position, he brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Disney’s leadership, alongside a legacy of achievement and a commitment to the company’s ongoing evolution.
