Former Jungle Cruise Skipper Joe Schott Named President of Walt Disney World

The Walt Disney Company announced three leadership changes this morning. Joe Schott has been named president of Walt Disney World Resort. Natacha Rafalski will step into the role Schott is leaving behind as president of Disney Signature Experiences. Finally, Christophe Murphy will succeed Rafalski as president of Disneyland Paris.

The three will take over their new roles in July.

Thomas Mazloum, Disney Experiences chairman, said the following about the appointments:

“Disney Experiences is in the midst of unprecedented expansion with more new projects underway across our global portfolio than at any other moment in our history. These appointments reflect the depth of leadership talent driving Disney Experiences. Joe, Natacha, and Christophe have a deep appreciation of the guest experience, possess extensive financial and operational expertise, and a proven ability to deliver at scale. I have complete confidence in each of them to build on the remarkable momentum underway across these businesses and to write the next chapter of Disney’s story.”

Joe Schott takes over Walt Disney World Resort

Schott’s ascension should make theme park fans happy. Well, maybe not all of them. We’re a fickle bunch. But having a former Jungle Cruise skipper in charge of our favorite vacation destination is okay in my book.

During his time as president of Disney Signature Experiences, Schott oversaw Disney Vacation Club, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani, Adventures by Disney, and National Geographic Expeditions. Before that, he served as president and general manager of Shanghai Disney Resort.

Natacha Rafalski and Christophe Murphy also receive new roles

Rafalski has served as president of Disneyland Paris since 2018. Before that, she played a major role in the development of Shanghai Disney Resort, serving as chief financial officer of The Walt Disney Company Greater China from 2013 to 2017.

Murphy began his Disney career at Disneyland Paris in 1991. In 2021, he was appointed vice president of Operations for Walt Disney Attractions Japan before returning to Paris in 2023 as senior vice president of the resort.

Disney moved quickly filling these roles. Current Walt Disney World Resort president Jeff Vahle announced his retirement just one week ago today.