The Walt Disney Company is preparing for one of its most important transitions in decades as CEO Bob Iger nears the end of his celebrated tenure. With his retirement approaching, attention across the company has turned to who will guide Disney into its next era—Chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro or Co-Chair of Disney Entertainment Dana Walden.
As the race for the top role unfolds, Disney is also making notable changes within its Experiences division. These shifts mark a continued emphasis on the creativity, financial stewardship, and innovation that have long defined Disney’s global parks and resorts.
Changes Within Disney Experiences
Disney recently announced that Kevin Lansberry, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Disney Experiences, will retire in February 2026. His four-decade career at Disney has spanned countless milestones. Stepping into the CFO role will be Michael Moriarty, President and Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.
Moriarty’s Disney journey has crossed creative and financial disciplines. He previously served as CFO for Walt Disney Imagineering and later at Hong Kong Disneyland itself. Under his leadership, the resort opened World of Frozen—a milestone expansion that helped elevate its global standing.
Josh D’Amaro praised Moriarty’s experience and forward-thinking approach, noting that his leadership will play a major role in Disney’s next phase of growth.
“Michael Moriarty brings a deep understanding of our long-term strategy to broaden the reach and impact of Disney Experiences,” D’Amaro said in a statement via The Hollywood Reporter. “His global perspective and leadership will help guide us through an exciting chapter of growth, reaching new fans in new places and on new platforms.”
A successor for Moriarty’s Hong Kong Disneyland role has not yet been named. His move to the Experiences financial team comes as Disney places renewed focus on the division that has become the emotional and economic centerpiece of the company.
The Search for Disney’s Next CEO
While changes take place within the parks, the larger conversation continues at the corporate level. Reports suggest that Disney’s CEO succession is narrowing to a “two-horse race” between D’Amaro and Walden.
D’Amaro has built his career through the parks, beginning at Disneyland Resort and ultimately overseeing Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products. Known as a “cast member’s leader,” he is often described as someone who values connection—with both employees and guests. Under his guidance, the division achieved record profits even amid challenging global conditions. His leadership philosophy focuses on storytelling, immersion, and guest satisfaction, helping reinforce the parks as Disney’s creative and financial core.
Dana Walden, meanwhile, co-leads Disney Entertainment alongside Alan Bergman. She has guided television, streaming, and studio strategies, revitalizing key aspects of Disney’s media operations. Her work has positioned Disney’s content portfolio for long-term growth, even as its streaming services seek greater profitability. She’s also this controversial star’s top choice.
What’s Next for Disney
The Disney Board, chaired by James P. Gorman, is expected to make its decision in early 2026. With Iger’s contract ending that December, the new CEO will have several months to learn directly from one of the most influential leaders in corporate history.
As Disney continues to evolve, the simultaneous leadership transitions—both in Burbank and across its global parks—set the stage for the company’s next generation of storytellers. Whether led by D’Amaro’s guest-first vision, Walden’s media expertise, or Moriarty’s financial insight, Disney’s next chapter promises continued growth, creativity, and connection.
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