Joe Schott, a 40-year veteran cast member and longtime executive at Walt Disney Co., will be the next president of Walt Disney World, the company announced Monday.
Read more NextEra, Dominion want to create a massive power company as AI drives energy demand in the US
Schott’s most recent role has been president of Disney Signature Experiences, the division that includes Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, Aulani, the company’s resort in Hawaii, and other entities.
His previous positions included as president of Shanghai Disney Resort, chief operating officer of Disneyland Paris and executive managing director of Walt Disney Attractions Japan.
His first Disney job — hired at age 17 — was in Florida as a Jungle Cruise skipper at Magic Kingdom theme park. Schott grew up in Central Florida and earned a bachelor’s degree from Nova Southeastern University.
Read more Mark Fuhrman, former LA police detective convicted of lying during OJ Simpson murder trial, has died
Schott takes over the WDW presidency from Jeff Vahle, who is retiring in July.
Jeff Vahle, Disney World’s president, announces retirement
Walt Disney World, which has about 80,000 employee, is in the midst of expansion mode with new lands under construction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom, which is consider the world’s most visited theme park annually.
“As we continue creating experiences for the next generation of guests and fans around the world, it is essential that we place thoughtful leaders in roles where they can have the greatest impact — leaders with deep operational expertise, creative instincts, global perspective, and, most importantly, a sincere passion for our company and our people,” Thomas Mazloum, president of Disney Experiences, posted on social media Monday.
Disney building new ferryboat, naming it after former president
In an executive ripple effect, Natacha Rafalski will move into Schott’s spot as president of Disney Signature Experiences. She has been president of Disneyland Paris since 2018. She will be replaced by Christophe Murphy, who has been senior vice president for operations at the French resort since 2023. But it all started at the top after CEO Bob Iger retired and Josh D’Amaro was elevated to chief executive. Mazloum replaced D’Amaro.
Read more Adults hospitalized after school bus, 2nd vehicle collide in Orlando, police say