In a CNBC interview on Tuesday morning, James Gorman discussed the search for Disney’s new CEO and why Josh D’Amaro was ultimately chosen for the role. Gorman, former CEO of Morgan Stanley, was brought on as Disney’s chairman of the board in 2024 to lead the search, which officially ended this week.

New CEO Josh D’Amaro

“Josh is unbelievable,” Gorman said. “We looked at all corners. We wanted whoever got this job to be the best person to run what is probably one of the most exciting jobs in the world.” Gorman said they considered more than 100 candidates.

D’Amaro is chairperson of Disney Experiences, the parks, and Disney Cruise Line division of The Walt Disney Company. But Gorman noted that doesn’t mean he lacks experience with Disney’s intellectual property.

“If you think about what is the heart of the Disney company, it’s creativity,” Gorman said. “It’s the amazing IP that’s been produced over decades, going back to Walt and the storytelling that comes from that creativity.”

He called D’Amaro creative and said, “If you have been through the parks or been on one of the cruise ships, you would appreciate just how much the IP is infused in all aspects of what Disney does. Josh is actually deep in the IP.”

President & CCO Dana Walden

Regarding Dana Walden’s promotion to President and Chief Creative Officer, Gorman said, “Dana is also an unbelievable executive. We’re so blessed at this company. We had four incredible top executives with Jimmy Pitaro and Alan Bergman, Dana and Josh.”

D’Amaro, Walden, Pitaro, and Bergman were the four main candidates for the CEO position, with D’Amaro and Walden ultimately considered the frontrunners. Walden is co-chair of Disney Entertainment with Bergman, while Pitaro is chairperson of ESPN.

Walden will now oversee TV, film, and streaming.

Bob Iger’s Retirement

Though current CEO Bob Iger’s contract is up at the end of 2026, D’Amaro and Walden will step into their new roles on March 18. Gorman said Iger had “developed the talent” and decided it was time to step aside and “work with this individual and with this team and ensure we get off for this next decade on the strongest possible foot.”

Iger will remain Senior Advisor and board member until his (second) retirement at the end of the year.

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