Cultural Representative to Guest Experience Manager in Magic Kingdom – Manuel Ruiz de Gaona Llamas’ Story
Manuel Ruiz de Gaona Llamas is an incredible example of the possibilities that await within the Walt Disney Company. Manny has held roles across many different countries and within many different departments – each one bringing a new sense of excitement and passion to his Disney career.
The Journey to Disneyland Paris
Manny took part in the Cultural Representative Program at the Italy Pavilion in EPCOT in 2004. The hope to make a career out of working for the Walt Disney Company was ignited following the completion his program. He decided that his next step would be in Disneyland Paris.
Manny began learning basic French, and he officially made the move to France in November of 2005. He became a full-time Cast Member and participated in the prestigious Hôte d’ Acccueil Touristique (HAT) program. This opportunity allowed Manny to work across Food and Beverage, Operations and Merchandise over a 15-month period.
Throughout his time at Disneyland Paris, Manny had many opportunities to partner with other departments throughout the company. He was selected as one of the first Operations Cast Members to partake in the test and adjust phase of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in Disneyland Paris.
“Working side by side with Walt Disney Imagineering, I witnessed both the artistry and engineering magic that brings an E-ticket attraction to life,” shared Manny.
The experiences Manny had throughout his time at Disneyland Paris added the ambition he needed to continue growing within the company. He became a Coordinator (CM expérimenté), where he led Main Street Operations at Parc Disneyland, and even opened new venues and launched never-before-seen nighttime spectaculars.
Manny’s Return to Walt Disney World
In 2015, Manny returned to Walt Disney World by partaking in the International Management Training Program. He completed this role throughout 2015 and 2016, before momentarily taking his talents outside of the company. Even during this time away, Manny truly felt inspired to return to Disney.
“My Disney journey has spanned languages, countries and dreams – but at the heart of it all are the Guests and Cast who make every day truly magical,” shared Manny.
In 2022, Manny returned to Disney as a Guest Experience Manager in Magic Kingdom Entertainment. He is currently a part of the Characters team, where he has again had opportunities to reopen beloved attractions and support new venues.
Why Manny Supports Disney Programs Cast
Manny is proof that it is possible for international Cast to continue their Disney journeys – with passion and hard work, any dream can become realized. Manny shared that the greatest piece of advice for current international participants is to share your dreams with others, as you never know who can help you bring them to life.
“Take full advantage of this opportunity and strive to be the best version of yourself throughout the program. Don’t wait too long to reach out to a leader you trust, they can help guide you in the right direction,” shared Manny.
Manny chose to become a Programs Champion to support his Cast in any way he can. He loves getting to know participants on a deeper level and be a resource to help them understand the possibilities ahead.
“In my Disney career, I’ve always felt that when a Cast Member receives meaningful experiences and mentoring, it becomes natural to give back to the next generation of Cast,” said Manny.
One great example of how Manny chooses to celebrate his Cast are late night movie nights at Mickey’s PhilarMagic in Magic Kingdom! With the help of Programs Champions Angie Rowan and Katie Howard, Manny provided a one-of-a-kind experience for his Disney Programs participants.
Thank you, Manny, for being such a great role model for our International Programs participants. Your Disney journey has been nothing short of exceptional – and you truly do change lives each and every day.
