Making Disney Career Moves Around the Globe
At The Walt Disney Company, the opportunities to grow your career are endless. Whether the path is straight or full of twists and turns, you have the chance to write your own career story. Let’s take a trip around the world to meet employees from each region, all of whom have used moments in their career as stepping stones to their next big adventure.
North America
After a full and successful 30 years in the United States Army, Dan was ready to build a career outside of the military. Disney’s Military Fellowship Program offered Dan the perfect chance to adjust to civilian life through a three-to-six-month program with real project work, mentorship and a structured transition experience. Dan joined Disney as the company’s very first Military Fellow and has continued to build his Disney career.
“The Military Fellowship was a turning point for me,” shared Dan. “It helped me translate my military experience into meaningful work at Disney and gave me confidence that I could thrive here. It also connected me with teams and leaders who supported my transition and ultimately shaped the path I’m on today.”
Today, Dan is a Senior Manager with Talent Connection Outreach and Engagement, focusing his efforts on building the Disney Military Fellowship Program to help veterans find long-term success.
Want to learn more about Dan’s career story and Disney’s commitment to supporting veterans and their families as they transition into life after service? Read more here!
Latin America
Vitória began her Disney career with the Disney Apprenticeship Program in Brazil! During the same year, she transitioned into a Disney internship. Then, she participated in the Cultural Exchange Program (CEP), where she had the opportunity to work in merchandise in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. At the end of her CEP, she returned to Brazil and joined the company as a Junior Producer, Creative Services, ESPN Marketing Promotions.
“My [Disney] leadership has always encouraged me to ask questions about anything I didn’t know. It may seem simple, but showing that you’re not afraid to ask questions and that you’re willing to learn demonstrates a big difference. This was certainly a great incentive in my professional development.”
Read more about Vitória’s experience, and discover three more inspiring career stories from The Walt Disney Company Brazil!
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Ethan began his Disney career with a background in graphic design, first working on music-based licenses across apparel and fashion products before moving into character-based design. That experience opened the door for him to join Disney Consumer Products, where he has continued to grow his creative career by bringing Disney’s iconic stories and characters to life in fresh, relevant ways.
Today, Ethan is a Creative Director for the EMEA design team, leading creatives across everything from general licensing to global fashion collaborations. He aims to build an environment where creatives feel empowered to take risks, collaborate openly and grow their skills.
“The company’s focus on developing cast members aligns with how I work best: curious, collaborative and always looking to improve,” said Ethan. “Knowing that Disney encourages learning at every stage makes me confident I could grow my skills, contribute at a higher level over time and do work that is elevating and inspiring.”
Read more about Ethan’s story and how creativity, storytelling and design come together at Disney Consumer Products in EMEA.
Asia Pacific
On Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s opening day, Kitty walked through the front gates, bright-eyed and ready to start a new adventure as a performer. She’ll never forget her first show, as she reminisced, “I remember we gave 100% energy, but the audience gave us 150% back. The connection with the audience was so close. That bonding with the audience was unforgettable.”
As the years flew by, her passion for the work only grew. After welcoming two babies, Kitty transitioned into a backstage role as a Team Assistant and shortly after joined the Talent Casting team, doing everything from auditions, promotions, audition events, job offers, contracts and relocations.
“After working in entertainment for 19 years, I decided to take a new challenge — stepping out of my comfort zone,” she said. She now serves as a Cast Services Manager on the Security, Safety, Fire and Health Services team and is responsible for handling onboarding procedures and helping non-local cast members adapt to the culture of Hong Kong Disneyland.
Learn more about Kitty’s 20-year career, from opening day team to life in a leadership role!
Where will your career story take you? Visit Disney Careers to take the first step toward your next chapter!
