Summary
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.
Key Highlights
- 1Josh D’Amaro appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective March 18, 2026.
- 2Robert A. Iger transitions to Senior Advisor role, reporting to the Board, through December 31, 2026.
- 3Dana Walden appointed President and Chief Creative Officer, effective March 18, 2026.
- 4New 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.
- 5President & 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.
- 6The 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.
- 7Robert 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.