Two of Walt Disney's most senior executives are to assume each other's roles at the end of the year, with Thomas O. Staggs, senior executive vice president and Disney's chief financial officer, becoming chair, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

He will be responsible for the company's holiday businesses, which span three continents and include five resort destinations and a cruise line. His former position will be taken over by James A. Rasulo, currently chair of Disney Parks and Resorts. As chief financial officer, Rasulo will oversee the company's worldwide finance organisation, corporate strategy and development, brand management, corporate alliances, investor relations, treasury and risk management activities, controller functions, information systems, corporate responsibility, real estate and taxes.

The two men will remain members of the senior management group reporting to Disney president and CEO, Robert A. Iger. Both are longtime Disney executives and both serve on the board of Euro Disney S.C.A., the French parent company of Disneyland Paris. Pic: Thomas O. Stagg becomes chair, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts