Joe Schott's Start Date as Walt Disney World President Revealed

Joe Schott - President, Walt Disney World Resort

Joe Schott’s Start Date as Walt Disney World President Revealed

July 8, 2026

Disney Experiences, Parks, Walt Disney World Resort

Joe Schott will soon take over as President of the Walt Disney World Resort. This comes as the current president, Jeff Vahle, is set to retire this month. Disney has revealed that Schott will assume his new role on August 3rd. Previously, he was the President of Disney Signature Experiences.

Starting on August 3rd, Schott will begin leading the 80,000 cast members of the four theme parks, more than 25 resort hotels, two water parks, a sports complex, and a themed retail, dining, and entertainment district at Walt Disney World Resort. This marks a return for Schott, who began his Disney career at Walt Disney World four decades ago as a Jungle Cruise Skipper.

About Joe Schott

During his over 40-year career with Disney, he has taken on many leadership roles around the world. This includes being the resident and General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort, and previously supporting Tokyo Disney Resort through Walt Disney Attractions Japan. He also played a key role in the revitalization of the Disneyland Paris parks and hotels as Chief Operating Officer. Most recently, he served as President of Disney Signature Experiences, where he led a dynamic business that included Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Adventures by Disney, National Geographic Expeditions, Storyliving by Disney, and Golden Oak. Under Schottʼs leadership, Disney Cruise Line continued a period of growth that included the launches of the Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure, the brandʼs first entry into the Asian market.

Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Looking Forward

As he takes on the role of President of Walt Disney World Resort, Schott will be tasked with leading it through a period of significant growth. This will see new lands and attractions being built at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. He will also be focused on supporting cast members, delivering exceptional guest experiences, and building on the strong foundation and ongoing investments that continue to shape Walt Disney World.

What do you think of Joe Schott taking over the role of President of Walt Disney World? What are you most excited about with the future of Walt Disney World under Schott’s leadership? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!

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Mr. Daps is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Daps Magic, a premier Disney news community established in 2004. With over 20 years of experience as a journalist and media creator, he has become a trusted voice in the Disney fandom, appearing as an expert on KTLA, NPR, and the Orange County Register. Known for his signature trilby and bow tie, Mr. Daps provides optimistic, informed coverage of the Disney Parks, Pixar, and Marvel. He is the weekly host of Geeks Corner and a proud Her Universe Brand Ambassador. Follow his adventures on Twitter, Instagram, and Threads, or join the conversation live on the Daps Magic YouTube channel. If you see him at Disneyland, be sure to say hi!