Walt Disney Parks and Resorts has appointed Michael Colglazier as president of parks in Asia. The 28-year Disney veteran most recently served as president of Disneyland Resort in Anaheim for five years.
In his new role as president and managing director of Asia Pacific, Mr. Colglazie will be responsible for overseeing the operations of Disney’s parks and resorts across Asia, including Hong Kong Disneyland, Tokyo Disney Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort.
He will have a lot to do in his new role. In June 2018, Shanghai Disney Resort plans to open an expansion of Toy Story Land. Meanwhile, Hong Kong Disneyland is undergoing a $1.4 billion expansion that will include a Frozen themed land and attractions based on Marvel IP.
In November 2017, it was reported that Disney was planning a $2.7 billion expansion of Tokyo Disney Resort in response to overcrowding and increased competition.
Bill Earnest, who has held the position since 2008, announced his retirement earlier this month after 24 years.
“It has been incredible to lead Walt Disney’s Original Parks for the past five years and work with my fellow cast members to advance Walt Disney’s legacy of innovation, quality, and storytelling,” said Colglazie. It was an honor.”
“Being part of the Disneyland Resort community is a source of great joy for me and my family. I am thrilled to join the Asia team, where our opportunities for growth are diverse and limitless. ”
Colglazier will be succeeded by Josh D’Amaro, who has been with the company for 20 years as president of the Anaheim Disneyland Resort. He most recently served as senior vice president at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, where he oversaw marketing strategy, sales and business development.
Mr. D’Amaro began his career with the company in 1998 as a senior business planner for the Disneyland Resort. Over his eight years at the park, he held several leadership positions of increasing responsibility.
“I’m so excited to be returning to where I started my Disney career 20 years ago,” D’Amaro said.
“I look forward to working closely with my fellow Cast Members, overseeing the Disneyland Resort during such an exciting period of growth, and once again becoming a part of the Orange County community.”
Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, announced the move.
“Michael and Josh bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their new roles and share a passion for delivering great experiences for our guests. “He is the right leader to make it happen,” he said.
