Jeff Vahle is Walt Disney World Resort’s president. A 30-year veteran of Disney’s theme parks segment, he oversees a workforce of more than 77,000 cast members at four theme parks and 30 resort hotels. He also leads the facilities and operations services for Disney’s theme parks across the world. These teams are responsible for engineering, maintenance, construction, utilities, manufacturing, sourcing and procurement, safety and health, and asset management programmes.
Vahle started his career at Disney in 1990. He is a respected senior executive who drives creativity and innovation, exceeds visitor expectations, and delivers long-term business growth. He has held a series of high-profile leadership roles at Disney, from positions in operations and engineering to technology and global support services.
Before becoming Walt Disney World’s president, Vahle was president of Disney Signature Experiences. There, he led several businesses including Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, Golden Oak and Aulani. At Disney Cruise Line, he was responsible for four ships, Disney’s Port Canaveral cruise terminal, and Castaway Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas.
In his current role, he is often seen interacting with Disney cast members in the theme parks. Outside of the resort, Vahle is actively involved in the Central Florida community. He currently serves as chairman of the board of directors for Give Kids the World, and as a member of the Rollins College board of trustees. Previously, he served on the Central Florida Salvation Army board of directors.
In 2022, Walt Disney World announced an affordable housing project, setting aside nearly 80 acres of land in Central Florida. “We are invested in working together with our community to solve complex issues,” said Vahle. “The lack of affordable housing is affecting many people across our country, including right here in Central Florida. This is the right opportunity and the right time to take action.”