Disney Parks Executive Anthony Connelly has been named Senior Vice President, Disney Cruise Line Operations, effective May 12, the company announced today.
In his new role, Connelly assumes responsibility for all shipboard operations fleet-wide, including onboard entertainment, youth activities, marine and technical operations, purchasing, logistics and shoreside travel operations. He also oversees Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.
“We’re thrilled that Anthony is joining our Disney Cruise Line team,” said Karl Holz, Disney Cruise Line President, to whom Connelly will report. “Anthony’s strategic thinking and leadership skills, business and financial acumen, and his passion for Disney will position him for success in this role.”
Before joining Disney Cruise Line, Anthony served since 2006 as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Disney’s U.S. Parks and Resorts businesses, including Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club and Adventures by Disney.
Anthony began his Disney career in 1989 and advanced through various key leadership positions throughout the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Finance organization. He is actively involved in the state and local community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise Florida, University of Central Florida Foundation, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. Anthony was also a member of Florida Governor Rick Scott’s Economic Development Transition Team as well as a member of Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater’s Transition Team. He has a master’s of business administration from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and is also a Certified Public Accountant.
Connelly is succeeding Tom Wolber, who was appointed in February to lead Disney Sports Enterprises, which includes Walt Disney World’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and the company’s runDisney marathon program, as well as Downtown Disney and the massive expansion of that business.
