Walt Disney World Resort President Jeff Vahle congratulated Thomas Mazloum on his appointment as Chairman of Disney Experiences.
Vahle posted a message on Instagram following today's announcement that Mazloum will succeed Josh D'Amaro as head of Disney's largest business segment.
"I've always admired Thomas Mazloum's ability to combine operational excellence with a genuine passion for our Cast Members," Vahle wrote. "We've worked closely together over the years - across cruise ships, resorts and as colleagues leading the U.S. Disney Parks - and I have tremendous respect for his leadership and character."
"I'm excited to step into the next era of Disney Experiences alongside him. Congratulations on being named Chairman, Thomas!" Vahle wrote.
Vahle and Mazloum's Working Relationship
Vahle and Mazloum have collaborated across multiple areas of Disney's operations over the years.
Both executives have experience in Disney Cruise Line operations. Mazloum began his Disney career in 1998 as a hotel director for Disney Cruise Line and later served as President of Disney Signature Experiences, which includes the cruise business.
Vahle also held leadership roles in Disney Cruise Line before becoming President of Walt Disney World Resort in 2019. He previously led Disney Signature Experiences, the same position Mazloum held before becoming Disneyland Resort President.
The two executives have worked as colleagues leading U.S. Disney Parks. Vahle oversees Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, while Mazloum led Disneyland Resort in California until today's promotion.
Vahle's Position in Leadership Structure
As President of Walt Disney World Resort, Vahle will now report to Mazloum in the new organizational structure.
Vahle oversees approximately 80,000 cast members at four theme parks, more than 25 resort hotels, two water parks, a sports complex, and Disney Springs.
Since taking the role five years ago, Vahle has opened major attractions including Tiana's Bayou Adventure, TRON Lightcycle / Run, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and the reimagined Test Track. He is managing billions of dollars in investments for new lands and attractions at Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom.
In addition to Walt Disney World, Vahle oversees Worldwide Safety, Health, Engineering and Sourcing for Disney Experiences.
Mazloum's New Role
Mazloum will lead a diverse portfolio of global businesses including Disney's theme parks, cruise ships, resort hotels, expeditions and adventures, consumer products, and Walt Disney Imagineering.
D'Amaro praised Mazloum's qualifications for the role in today's announcement.
"Thomas Mazloum is an exceptional leader with a genuine appreciation for our cast members and a proven track record of delivering growth," D'Amaro said. "His focus on service excellence, broad international leadership, and strong connection to the creativity that brings our stories to life make him the right leader to guide Disney Experiences into its next chapter."
Other Leadership Changes
Disney announced three other promotions in the Experiences division alongside Mazloum's appointment.
Jill Estorino will become President of Disneyland Resort, succeeding Mazloum. She had been President of Disney Parks International.
Tasia Filippatos will become President of Disney Parks International. She previously served as President of Disney Consumer Products.
Lisa Baldzicki will become President of Disney Consumer Products. She most recently worked as head of parks product development and retail for the division.
All roles take effect March 18, 2026.
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