Disney Parks Chairman, Josh D’Amaro, has made a big announcement regarding changes coming to leadership in the highest levels of his division within the Walt Disney Company. Of particular interest, beyond the retirement of a Disney Parks legend (George Kalogridis), D’Amaro has named someone to the role of President, Consumer Products, Games and Publishing. Sources tell That Park Place writers that Tasia Filippatos’ new role will have her working directly on some of the broader corporate goals in developing a metaverse. If you’re confused about what that might mean exactly, you’re not the only one.
Here’s the major statement from D’Amaro:
We have always been a company built on imagination, creativity and innovation, and on our most recent earnings call, our domestic parks were a standout, powered by strong demand coupled with customized and personalized Guest experience enhancements. As we continue to transform our Disney Parks, Experiences and Products business, our talent is the cornerstone of our success, and often we identify opportunities to rotate our senior leaders. As we launch new businesses around the globe, this must be one of our top priorities.
With our focus on growing our business, I have asked Thomas Mazloum to expand his role as President, New Experiences Portfolio and Disney Signature Experiences, to include the exploration of additional new initiatives beyond the berm, keeping our business development pipeline full. This will allow Thomas to continue to grow our DSE portfolio, while leading important growth initiatives as we launch new businesses.
I would also like to announce that after 50 years of distinguished service, George Kalogridis has made the decision to retire. George started on the Walt Disney World opening team when he was 17, and his career has included leadership roles at Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Paris, and most recently Disney Institute and National Geographic Live. Having had a positive influence on thousands of Cast Members during his impressive tenure, he now serves as Global Ambassador for the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration. I want to personally thank George for his significant contributions and commitment to DPEP and our teams around the world. Over the next several months, he will continue to play an important role representing the company on several nonprofit boards and councils to complete his work strengthening our segment DEI efforts.
With George’s retirement, I have made the decision to shift Disney Institute and National Geographic Live to Disney Signature Experiences. As Thomas shifts his broader focus to the New Experiences Portfolio, and with George’s retirement, I am pleased to announce the following changes:
Stephanie Young will transition into the role of President, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures & Expeditions, and Disney Institute/National Geographic Live, reporting to Thomas. Given Thomas’ increased scope and the high expectations of these businesses, Stephanie’s focus in these areas will be crucial for our segment. Her extensive background as a proven leader with deep operational expertise makes her ideally suited for this role.
With Stephanie’s move, I am excited to announce that Tasia Filippatos will take on the role of President, Consumer Products, Games and Publishing, reporting to me. Tasia joined Disney Parks in 2008, moved to CPGP in 2012, and since 2018 has led the CPGP business across Europe, Africa and Russia. She has done an exceptional job in her role in EMEA, and her rich experience and proven leadership within CPGP make her exceptionally well suited for this role.
All of us at That Park Place would like to send our warmest wishes to all the new Disney leadership taking on these exciting roles. Additionally, to Mr. Kalogridis and his fantastic career with The Walt Disney Company, we stand in awe of all you have accomplished. We wish you the very best retirement and a tremendous new adventure with a neverending horizon.
For all the news that should be fun, keep checking back with That Park Place. If you have any insight into the leadership changes and what they might mean for the company at large, let us know down in the comments below!
