We Now Know WHEN Joe Schott Will Become President of Walt Disney World
With Josh D’Amaro assuming the position of CEO of The Walt Disney Company, we have seen a new corporate hierarchy emerge at Disney Experiences.
The metamorphosis began in March, when Thomas Mazloum was named chairman of Disney Experiences. Concurrently, Jill Estorino was tapped to replace Mazloum as president of Disneyland Resort.
Chef Gordon Ramsay poses with Mickey Mouse and Disneyland Resort President Thomas Mazloum during a visit to the Disneyland Resort on Jan. 23, 2026. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
In May, the second shoe dropped when Jeff Vahle announced he would retire as president of Walt Disney World after a 26-year career with the company.
Enter Joe Schott
Shortly after Vahle announced his retirement, Disney tapped Joe Schott to succeed him.
Disney
A 40-year Disney veteran, Schott has held numerous positions over his career, including President and General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort, head of Walt Disney Attractions Japan, and Chief Operating Officer of Disneyland Paris.
Most recently, he served as President of Disney Signature Experiences, overseeing Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Aulani, and more.
The Timeline
While we have long known that Schott would eventually lead Walt Disney World as its president, the exact timeline of the transition between Vahle and his successor has remained unclear.
Photo: Jeff Vahle on Instagram
When Vahle retired, he made it clear that he would be sticking around through the summer.
Now, we can officially report that Schott will assume his new role on August 3, 2026.
So, be sure to check back with MickeyBlog. We will continue to bring you all the latest news coming out of Walt Disney World as the Joe Schott era begins.
Photo: MickeyBlog
