01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 8-K filed February 3, 2026. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
The Walt Disney Company (DIS) has announced a significant leadership transition, with Josh D’Amaro appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 18, 2026.
D'Amaro, currently Chairman of Disney Experiences, will succeed Robert A. Iger, who will transition to a Senior Advisor role reporting to the Board until December 31, 2026. This move signals a planned succession and leverages D'Amaro's extensive experience within the company.
In parallel, Dana Walden has been appointed President and Chief Creative Officer, effective the same date. The company has also formalized the Disney Executive Severance Pay Plan, outlining benefits for eligible executives, including the new CEO, in cases of qualifying termination events. This filing details the compensation arrangements for the new CEO and President/CCO, including base salary, bonus targets, and long-term incentive awards, reflecting significant investments in their leadership.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- Josh D’Amaro appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective March 18, 2026.
- Robert A. Iger transitions to Senior Advisor role, reporting to the Board, through December 31, 2026.
- Dana Walden appointed President and Chief Creative Officer, effective March 18, 2026.
- New CEO Josh D'Amaro's compensation includes a $2,500,000 base salary, a target bonus of 250% of base salary, and a target annual long-term incentive award of $26,250,000, plus a one-time award of $9,705,000.
- President & CCO Dana Walden's compensation includes a $3,750,000 base salary, a target bonus of 200% of base salary, and a target annual long-term incentive award of $15,750,000, plus a one-time award of $5,260,000.
- The company approved the Disney Executive Severance Pay Plan, detailing severance benefits for eligible executives, including 2 to 2.5 times base salary for qualifying terminations.
- Robert A. Iger will continue as a Board member through the 2026 Annual Meeting, with potential to remain until year-end 2026, subject to shareholder vote.
03—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new CEO of The Walt Disney Company and when does the change take effect?
Josh D’Amaro, currently Chairman of Disney Experiences, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer. This transition is effective March 18, 2026.
What will Robert A. Iger's role be after March 18, 2026?
Robert A. Iger will transition to a Senior Advisor role, reporting directly to the Board of Directors. He is expected to serve in this capacity through December 31, 2026. He will continue to serve as a member of the Board, subject to shareholder approval at the 2026 annual meeting.
What are the key compensation details for the new CEO, Josh D’Amaro?
Josh D’Amaro will receive a base salary of $2,500,000, is eligible for an annual performance-based bonus with a target of 250% of his base salary, and will receive annual long-term incentive awards with a target value of $26,250,000. He will also receive a one-time long-term incentive award with a target value of $9,705,000.
What is the significance of the new Disney Executive Severance Pay Plan?
The plan formalizes severance benefits for eligible executives, including the CEO, in the event of a termination without 'cause' or resignation for 'good reason.' For the CEO, this includes two and one-half times annual base salary, prorated bonus, and continued health benefits. This provides a structured safety net for key leadership.
04—Continue