Former Chief Creative Returns to Lead Walt Disney Imagineering

There is a new sheriff in town for Walt Disney Imagineering. Or rather, the return of an old one.

Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative powerhouse responsible for everything that Guests experience in Disney Theme Parks around the world. Since its founding by Walt himself, the team has been championed by several legendary figures, including Marty Sklar and Bob Weiss.

Since 2021, Barbara Bouza has held the reigns as Walt Disney Imagineering President. But now, it appears that she will have to share the reigns at the top going forward.

According to Theme Park Insider Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1), former Imagineer Bruce Vaughn will be returning to “co-lead the division alongside WDI president Barbara Bouza.” Vaugh left The Walt Disney Company in 2016 after serving as the division’s Chief Creative Officer since 2007. Te return comes as a sudden surprise to many. He starts his new job on Monday, March 20.

In a memo to cast members, Disney Parks chairman Josh D’Amaro said:

“With significant developments under way and more on the horizon, this dedicated focus toward creativity and innovation will help us deliver next-level experiences well into the future.”

— Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) March 7, 2023

This news comes on the heels of Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro’s address regarding the expansion and development of Disney Parks. D’Amaro claimed that TRON: Lightcycle/Run–finally opening at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort–was just the “tip of the iceberg” in regard to their plans for returning creative attention to the Theme Parks, prompting speculation that the “Blue Sky” ideas pitched at the 2022 D23 Expo last September was more than just talk. Click the link below to read out coverage of that story.

Read More: Josh D’Amaro Confirms TRON is Only the “Tip of the Iceberg” for Disney World

On Vaughn’s return, D’Amaro said, “With significant developments underway and more on the horizon, this dedicated focus toward creativity and innovation will help us deliver next-level experiences well into the future.”

Vaughn returns after servings as CEO for Dreamscape Immersive and VP, Experimental Creative Product, at AirBnB.

Walt Disney Imagineering already has several projects underway, including Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, three Frozen-themed lands at Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Tokyo Disney Resort, and a Zootopia-themed land at Shanghai Disney Resort.