by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 11:40 AM ET, Tue May 12, 2026
Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort since 2020, announced plans to retire this summer.
Vahle first announced his retirement on LinkedIn, telling the general public he's leaving in July.
According to local news station FOX 35 Orlando, Vahle started with Disney in 1990 and has held different leadership roles since, including leading Disney Signature Experiences, which Disney Cruise Lines and Adventures by Disney are nestled under.
"On top of his countless contributions to the company, Jeff's career is highlighted by his passion for our business and our Cast," wrote Thomas Mazloum, chairman of Disney Experience, in a memo to staff. "Known for his thoughtful leadership style and great sense of humor, Jeff's commitment to mentoring others and developing leaders has helped shape the careers of thousands of Cast Members over the past several decades."
He took over as president of Disney World in 2020 when Josh D'Amaro was named new chairman of Disney, Parks and Experiences. D'Amaro was recently named Disney's next CEO, replacing Bob Iger.
Disney has not announced who will be replacing Vahle, though it's announced other transitions earlier this spring.
"Today, I shared with our team that after 36 years with Disney, I'll be retiring this summer," Vahle wrote in his post on LinkedIn. "I started my career as an engineer at Magic Kingdom and I'm wrapping it up with the best job ever, leading Walt Disney World into a period of remarkable growth in partnership with our incredible Cast Members and community."
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