Jeff Vahle is president of Walt Disney World Resort, America’s largest single-site workplace. Now in his 34th year with Disney Experiences, Jeff oversees a workforce of approximately 80,000 Cast Members at four theme parks, more than 25 resort hotels, two water parks, a sports complex, a shopping/dining/entertainment district, behind-the-scenes facilities support and much more. Altogether, the organization he leads has been responsible for creating some 263,000 jobs throughout the State of Florida. In addition to his duties at Walt Disney World, Jeff oversees Worldwide Safety and Health, Engineering and Sourcing for Disney Experiences worldwide.
In the four years since assuming this role, Jeff and team have opened Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure; Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind; Tron Light Cycle / Run; Journey of Water, inspired by Moana; and new nighttime spectaculars at both the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT theme parks. He has also overseen the renovation of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, expansion of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and the openings of numerous food-and-beverage locations at Walt Disney World parks, resorts, and the Disney Springs shopping, dining and entertainment district.
Prior to his current roles, Jeff was concurrently the leader of Disney Signature Experiences (which includes Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, National Geographic Expeditions and more), and Facilities and Operations Services for Disney theme parks worldwide.
Since beginning his Disney career in 1990, Jeff has held a variety of leadership roles instrumental to the development of Disney destinations worldwide. These include Disney California Adventure, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney Resort.
Jeff has long been actively involved in the community, and currently serves on the board of directors at Give Kids the World and the Rollins College Board of Trustees, and is a member of The Florida Council of 100.
Jeff earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University and a master’s degree in business administration from Rollins College.