Schott Brings Global Perspective to Walt Disney World's Expansion Era

Joe Schott's Disney career has spanned nearly 45 years, starting as a part-time Jungle Cruise skipper at Walt Disney World. The Orlando native has since led Disney destinations in Paris, Tokyo, and Shanghai, overseeing complex vacation businesses and returning to Walt Disney World as its president.

Schott takes the reins during an era of sweeping expansion, with new lands and attractions under construction at Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom. He aims to simplify the guest experience by focusing on storytelling, transportation, food, technology, and cast interactions.

Schott's global perspective has been shaped by his experiences abroad, where he led the revitalization of Disneyland Paris' parks and hotels as chief operating officer. He later supported Tokyo Disney Resort through Walt Disney Attractions Japan, working with the Oriental Land Company.