Walt Disney World's president Jeff Vahle has announced that he will step down this summer after 36 years with Disney.
Vahle confirmed his retirement in a LinkedIn post, writing: "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."
Vahle said he will remain in the role "through late July, so I'll save the reminiscing for later".
Jeff Vahle / LinkedIn
He added: "In the meantime, there’s a lot ahead, from launching Cool Kids' Summer to opening Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets and an updated Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
"It’s an exciting time at Walt Disney World, and I’m looking forward to being part of it in the months ahead."
Vahle started his career at Disney in 1990 and has held a series of high-profile leadership roles at the company.
Before becoming Walt Disney World’s president, Vahle was president of Disney Signature Experiences, leading businesses including Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, and Adventures by Disney.
Fireworks at Magic Kingdom
As president of Walt Disney World, Vahle oversees more than 80,000 cast members at four theme parks and over 30 resort hotels.
The resort is currently working on several expansion projects, including a new Cars experience and villains-themed land at Magic Kingdom, Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom, and the Monstropolis land at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
In more news, Disney has confirmed its plans for a theme park in Abu Dhabi remain "unchanged", and revealed how its parks will use artificial intelligence (AI).
Images courtesy of Disney
