Disney Big Shot Brings Mouse Ears to Wall Street, Who’s Gonna Be the Next Big Cheese?
Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro showed up in style at Wall Street on Wednesday, sporting his iconic mouse ears. Rumor has it that this appearance is all part of a big test to see which of Disney’s executives has what it takes to fill the shoes of Chief Executive Bob Iger. Speaking at the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference, the 54-year-old theme parks honcho talked up his division, which covers everything from resorts to cruise lines to video games. He highlighted the company’s strict management style and ambitious goals, showcasing his unwavering enthusiasm for the brand — a quality many believe is essential for anyone looking to step into Iger’s role. With nearly 27 years of experience under his belt at Disney, D’Amaro expressed his pride in being part of the Walt Disney Co., saying, “It feels like it went by in a moment.”
The Race for the Top Spot: Who Will Take the Reins?
As the clock ticks towards Iger’s scheduled retirement in late 2026, Disney’s board is gearing up to announce a new CEO early next year. D’Amaro is a top contender, along with Disney Entertainment co-chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro. While the board has hinted at considering external candidates, all eyes seem to be on D’Amaro, whose stock keeps on rising. The stakes are high for Disney’s board, especially after the previous CEO handoff to Bob Chapek didn’t go as planned, leading to Iger’s swift return. D’Amaro recalled the chaotic events of November 2022, when he handed Iger a detailed binder filled with updates on the parks and experiences division, only to have Iger point out the vast potential for growth within the business. This anecdote not only showcased Iger’s leadership but also emphasized the pivotal role D’Amaro’s division plays in Disney’s success.
Expanding Horizons: Disney’s Billion-Dollar Plans
Disney isn’t holding back when it comes to expansion. With a whopping $60 billion set aside for the next decade, the company aims to revitalize resorts, theme parks, and even double its fleet of cruise lines. Additionally, Disney recently invested $1.5 billion in Epic Games, the creators of “Fortnite,” tapping into the lucrative world of video gaming. D’Amaro’s appearance at the investor conference followed a successful quarterly earnings report, which saw Disney’s stock climb over 20%, reclaiming lost ground from previous months. Operating income at the domestic theme parks division surged by 13%, reaching $1.8 billion. The company also announced plans for a new theme park in Abu Dhabi, part of a strategic move to capitalize on the region’s booming entertainment industry. Teaming up with Miral Group, Disney aims to bring its magic to the Middle East, catering to over half a billion potential visitors with a taste for all things Disney.
Embracing Imperfection: A Real Human Touch
D’Amaro’s down-to-earth approach and genuine love for all things Disney have earned him a special place in the hearts of fans. From mingling with park-goers to appearing in TikTok videos, D’Amaro has become a beloved figure, embodying the spirit of the “happiest place on earth.” Reflecting on his long tenure at Disney, D’Amaro emphasized the importance of connecting with executives and understanding the various facets of the business. As the race for the CEO position heats up, D’Amaro’s mix of experience, passion, and relatability could be just what Disney needs to steer the ship towards continued success. So, who will ultimately don the mouse ears as Disney’s next big cheese? Only time will tell.
