Josh D’Amaro has officially taken the helm as the new Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, succeeding longtime leader Bob Iger, who returned for a second stint after a previous successor’s departure. D’Amaro, who previously led Disney’s Experiences division overseeing parks and cruises, joined the company in 1998 and shares Iger’s birthday, February 10.

In a memo to employees, or “cast members,” D’Amaro expressed both humility and excitement at stepping into the role. “As I step into the CEO role today, I am humbled and honored to help write the next chapter of this company alongside this team,” he wrote.

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He highlighted three priorities guiding his leadership: maintaining Disney’s storytelling and creative excellence, embracing technology for more immersive and interactive experiences, and fostering a unified “One Disney” approach across the company’s global businesses.

Industry analysts say D’Amaro’s emphasis on interactive content reflects the evolving expectations of younger audiences. “In this new world, you really need to take down those velvet ropes and let them onto the red carpet,” noted Jon Giegengack of Hub Entertainment Research.

D’Amaro’s appointment came over Dana Walden, a respected entertainment executive who has overseen Disney’s TV business. While Walden was passed over for CEO, she has been promoted to the newly created role of Chief Creative Officer.

Known within Disney for his approachable style and genuine engagement with staff and park guests, D’Amaro faces the dual challenge of inspiring employees and reassuring investors, especially as Disney’s stock has remained largely flat over the past decade. Bank of America analysts have noted that the company’s valuation is at its lowest relative level in more than 40 years.

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Reflecting on his Disney journey, D’Amaro shared a personal memory from a childhood visit to Disneyland: riding Peter Pan’s Flight with his father, a moment he said captured the “joy” and “magic” at the heart of the company. He concluded his message to staff with optimism: “That feeling of flying I had on Peter Pan all those years ago is still real to me. Today, I am honored to move forward with all of you with ambition, optimism, and absolute confidence in what we can build together.”