Disney Experiences Division Faces Leadership Shakeup

Top candidates emerge to replace outgoing chairman Josh D'Amaro

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Speculation is already underway within Disney over who will replace Josh D'Amaro as chairman of the Disney Experiences division. Sources inside the company say one of three candidates is likely to emerge: Jeff Vahle, president of the Walt Disney World Resort; Natacha Rafalski, president of Disneyland Paris; or Thomas Mazloum, president of Disneyland Resort, with Mazloum considered the leading candidate.

Why it matters

The Disney Experiences division oversees the company's theme parks, resorts, and other immersive entertainment offerings, making the chairman role a critical position. The transition comes as Disney navigates a shifting industry landscape and seeks to maintain its status as a global leader in family-friendly experiences.

The details

D'Amaro, the current chairman, has been named CEO of The Walt Disney Company, creating the need for a replacement. The leading candidate, according to sources, is Thomas Mazloum, president of Disneyland Resort. Jeff Vahle, president of the Walt Disney World Resort, and Natacha Rafalski, president of Disneyland Paris, are also said to be in the running.

  • On February 4, 2026, speculation over D'Amaro's replacement began circulating.

The players

Josh D'Amaro

The outgoing chairman of Disney's Experiences division, who has been named CEO of The Walt Disney Company.

Thomas Mazloum

The president of Disneyland Resort, considered the leading candidate to replace D'Amaro as chairman of the Disney Experiences division.

Jeff Vahle

The president of the Walt Disney World Resort, mentioned as a top candidate to replace D'Amaro.

Natacha Rafalski

The president of Disneyland Paris, considered a dark horse candidate to replace D'Amaro.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Disney board is expected to make a decision on D'Amaro's replacement in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The transition in leadership for Disney's Experiences division comes at a critical time for the company, as it navigates a rapidly evolving industry and seeks to maintain its position as a global leader in family-friendly entertainment.