LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – A new chapter unfolds at Walt Disney World with the introduction of its freshly appointed president.
On Monday, The Walt Disney Company announced that Joe Schott will be stepping into the role, succeeding Jeff Vahle, who is set to retire.
This marks another significant leadership transition at Disney, following the recent move of former Walt Disney World president Josh D’Amaro to the position of chief executive officer.
According to The Walt Disney Company, Schott brings over four decades of leadership expertise within Disney’s experiences division. His impressive resume includes serving as president and general manager of Shanghai Disney Resort, chief operating officer at Disneyland Paris, and executive managing director at Walt Disney Attractions Japan.
In his most recent role, Schott was the president of Disney Signature Experiences, where he played a pivotal role in the launch of the Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure cruise ships.
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Schott got his start at Disney World as a Jungle Cruise skipper, so he has experience getting ahead with tough customers like Trader Sam (head salesman).
He’s also journeyed to the backside of water and lived to tell the tale.
Now Schott will be in charge of a major expansion at Disney World, home to the most visited theme parks in the world.
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Construction is underway at Magic Kingdom to add Piston Peak National Park, a “Cars”-themed land, as well as a land dedicated to Disney’s villains.
Animal Kingdom is also getting an 11-acre “Tropical Americas” land with attractions based on “Encanto” and the “Indiana Jones” franchise. Hollywood Studios is also undergoing a major refresh, with the return of the Magic of Disney Animation experience, a Muppets re-theme for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and construction of a land based on the “Monsters, Inc.” franchise.
Schott will start his new job by the end of July.
