Joe Schott Takes the Helm as Walt Disney World President Amidst Record-Breaking Expansion

Jeff Vahle's tenure as Walt Disney World Resort president came to an end on July 31, after 36 years with The Walt Disney Company.

Vahle took over in 2020 and oversaw significant developments at the resort, including the openings of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, TRON Lightcycle / Run, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

On August 3, Joe Schott officially took over as president of Walt Disney World Resort. In a statement on LinkedIn, Schott reflected on his nearly 45-year journey with the company, thanking Vahle for his leadership and expressing his focus on supporting cast members, delivering exceptional guest experiences, and building on the resort's foundation.

Schott's background in frontline operations experience, international expertise, and managing aggressive growth make him a well-suited candidate to lead the resort through its current period of expansion. With significant investments underway across the property, Schott will be tasked with overseeing billions of dollars in construction projects, including new lands and attractions at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.