Today marks the start of a new era for Disney as long-time CEO Bob Iger officially passes the baton to his successor, Josh D’Amaro, at the company’s annual shareholders meeting.
D’Amaro, a 28-year veteran of the company, was named Iger’s replacement on Feb. 3. He most recently served as head of Disney Experiences, which includes the company’s theme parks, cruise line, resorts and consumer products.
Disney and D’Amaro have said very little about how he plans to lead the company, and today’s shareholder meeting could offer a first glimpse into the company’s direction at a pivotal moment for the media industry.
The company, with a market cap of $175.98 billion,will have to contend with a shifting landscape as competitor Paramount Skydance prepares to acquire Warner Bros.,potentially cutting into the company’s market share. Since Iger returned as CEO in 2022, the company’s shares have underperformed compared to the wider market.
The company’s messaging around D’Amaro’s ascension has focused on ensuring a smooth transition following the short, controversy-filled tenure of Iger’s first replacement, Bob Chapek.
