Source: Fortune
Summary
Disney’s new CEO, Josh D’Amaro, is set to receive a lucrative pay package worth around $45 million in his first year. He will take over from Bob Iger, who will step down from the board’s executive committee and transition into an advisory role. Iger will depart completely at the end of the year, marking a significant change from his previous departure in 2020. D’Amaro will serve as CEO with James Gorman as chairman of the board, who was named in 2025. The succession process has been formalized, with Iger mentoring four internal candidates and the board reaching a consensus on D’Amaro as the best candidate. D’Amaro’s compensation package includes a base salary, target annual bonus, and annual long-term award, with a total grant-date value of around $44.7 million.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story. Disney’s board is trying to avoid a repeat of the last CEO transition, which didn’t go smoothly. By giving Iger a clear exit date and reducing his role, the board is trying to give D’Amaro space to make his mark. The formalized succession process and D’Amaro’s compensation package suggest a desire for stability and continuity. The appointment of Dana Walden as president and chief creative officer is also seen as a key move to balance out D’Amaro’s financial expertise with creative chops. D’Amaro will have to convince shareholders he’s the right choice, and investors will be watching closely to ensure a smooth transition.
Author: Evan Null
