Barbara Bouza is president of Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI). There, she leads the global creative, design and development teams behind Disney’s theme parks, attractions, resort hotels, cruise ships, and retail, dining and entertainment venues. She also oversees a team tasked with expanding Disney’s global portfolio of experiences.
Bouza replaced Bob Weis as Imagineering’s president in 2021. “Barbara has taken on increasing responsibility during her tenure, and I am continually impressed with her talent, her leadership and the relationships she’s already built across our company,” Weis wrote in an email to Imagineering staff.
During the Themed Entertainment Association’s Summit and Gala 2022, Bouza spoke about theme park technology. “One size doesn’t fit all,” she said. “Tech should be used when appropriate for these amazing immersive experiences. But you’ll still have guests who say ‘I just want an ice cream don’t make me use the app!’”
Bouza previously served as the co-managing director and principal of Gensler Los Angeles. In her leadership role there, she provided strategic design management for clients such as Netflix, Amgen, JPL/NASA, Debbie Allen, and City of Hope. She is a fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and served as the 2019 AIA Los Angeles president. She also served on the board of the Southern California chapter of the International Interior Design Association.
She was recognised by the Los Angeles Business Journal as Executive of the Year: Women Making a Difference, which honours women who lead by example. She has also been named by Real Estate Forum magazine as a Woman of Influence: California. Bouza is on the board of directors of Imagine LA, a leading non-profit dedicated to rallying the community to end the cycle of family homelessness and poverty.
Additionally, she is a member of the National Organization of Minority Architects and the Women Presidents’ Organization. Bouza also works with non-profit organisations including Girls Inc. and Dress for Success.