Core Viewpoint - Disney's board is expected to appoint Josh D'Amaro, the chairman of the theme-park division, as the new CEO, replacing Bob Iger, who is set to step down at the end of the year [1][2][4]. Group 1: CEO Succession - D'Amaro has been leading the theme park unit, which has been the primary profit driver for Disney since 2020, making him a strong candidate for the CEO position [2][4]. - The board is scheduled to meet on Tuesday and Wednesday to finalize the decision, although there is still a possibility of changing their minds [3][4]. - Dana Walden, co-chair of entertainment, was considered D'Amaro's main competitor for the CEO role, but recent controversies have put her in a less favorable position [7][10]. Group 2: Financial Performance - Disney reported adjusted earnings of $1.63 per share on revenue of $25.98 billion, surpassing Wall Street's expectations of $1.57 EPS on $25.74 billion revenue [3]. - The theme park division achieved over $10 billion in quarterly revenue for the first time, although a slowdown in growth is anticipated due to fewer international tourists [4]. Group 3: Leadership Background - D'Amaro joined Disney in 1998 and has worked his way up through various leadership roles in the theme park sector, including positions in California, Hong Kong, and Florida [13]. - Bob Iger has had a long tenure at Disney, serving as CEO from 2005 to 2020 and returning to the role in 2022 after the ousting of his successor, Bob Chapek [7][9].
Disney expected to name parks chief Josh D'Amaro as next CEO, replacing longtime boss Bob Iger: sources