In a significant management overhaul, The Walt Disney Company has initiated a series of executive shifts that promise to reshape its operational landscape. Ken Potrock, who previously served as the president of Disneyland Resort, has now taken the reins as president of Major Events Integration. In this new capacity, Potrock will play a crucial role in orchestrating the company’s approach to mammoth events spanning sports, entertainment, and tourism. This strategic focus aligns with Disney’s ambitions, particularly highlighted by the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, showcasing the company’s intent to leverage its vast resources and creativity to enhance its presence in major global events.
Taking over Potrock’s former role at Disneyland is Thomas Mazloum, a veteran with Disney since 1998, who steps in from his previous position as president of Disney Signature Experiences. This transition is not merely a change of title; it signifies a deliberate strategy to amplify guest experiences at Disneyland. Mazloum’s extensive background, which includes pivotal roles at Walt Disney World, equips him with insights to manage Disneyland’s workforce of over 36,000 employees and its numerous attractions including two theme parks and three hotels. As he reports to Josh D’Amaro, the company’s chairman, his mandate will be to enhance operational efficiencies and guest satisfaction, solidifying Disneyland’s reputation as a premier destination.
Joe Schott’s ascension to president of Disney Signature Experiences reflects a continuity of seasoned leadership within the organization. Schott, who has dedicated four decades to Disney, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at Shanghai Disney Resort, where he has served since 2019. In this role, he will oversee a diverse portfolio that includes Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, and other experiential properties. His broad experience positions him uniquely to drive innovation and enhance product offerings across these sectors, ensuring that the company’s family-centric values remain at the forefront of its business strategy.
Completing this leadership puzzle is Andrew Bolstein, who steps in to fill Schott’s previous role at Shanghai Disney. As a longtime Disney employee with a rich background in operations across multiple international parks, Bolstein’s promotion highlights the company’s commitment to nurturing leadership from within. His extensive experience positions him well to guide the Shanghai Resort through its next growth phase, which is essential for maintaining Disney’s competitive edge in the rapidly evolving global entertainment market.
These strategic appointments signify not only a reshuffling of leadership but also a re-emphasis on Disney’s core values: creativity, guest experience, and operational excellence. By aligning its experienced leaders with their respective strengths, Disney is poised to tackle upcoming challenges head-on while continuing to foster innovation across all its divisions. As these executives step into their new roles, the industry will be watching closely to see how these changes enhance Disney’s already iconic legacy.