Josh D’Amaro Shares Gratitude and Vision for Disney’s Future as CEO, Emphasizing Storytelling, Technology, and Togetherness in Message to Team
Disney Announces Leadership Transition Amid Industry Changes
During Disney’s recent annual shareholder meeting, a new era began as Josh took over from Bob Iger as CEO. In his address, he underscored the importance of storytelling, technology, and unity within the company. “This transition comes at a moment when the world is changing faster than ever. While that can feel daunting at times, it is also exciting. Disney has endured and thrived for generations by meeting change with vision, ambition, integrity, and optimism,” he stated.
In a heartfelt memo, Josh reflected on his personal connection to Disney, recounting a pivotal moment from his childhood visit to Disneyland. He shared, “More than 40 years ago, my family took me to Disneyland for the first time. One of the first attractions we rode was Peter Pan’s Flight… I remember that moment clearly. It was joy. It was family. And it was Disney.”
Josh emphasized that the essence of Disney lies in its ability to tell stories and create experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. He noted, “At its best, Disney creates stories, characters, and experiences that people connect with deeply and carry with them for a lifetime.”
As he steps into his new role, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the company forward alongside a talented team. “The magic of Disney comes to life in many ways — through our films and series, ESPN and sports, our music and stage shows, our streaming platforms and consumer products, and our theme parks, hotels, and cruise ships,” he explained.
Josh outlined three primary priorities for his leadership: maintaining a commitment to great storytelling and creative excellence, embracing technology to enhance storytelling, and fostering unity within the organization. He asserted, “Our greatest advantage is not any one business, but how our global businesses come together.”
Addressing the pace of change in today’s world, he acknowledged both the challenges and the excitement it presents. He credited Iger for his mentorship and set an optimistic tone for the future: “It is a privilege to follow in his footsteps and lead this team… today, I am honored to move forward with all of you — with ambition, optimism, and absolute confidence in what we can build together.”
