Walt Disney World has announced a leadership shakeup, with a game of musical chairs heading right up to the top of EPCOT. The most significant change is the naming of Matt Simon, former Disney Springs Vice President, as the new Vice President of EPCOT. Here’s the latest:

New EPCOT VP & More Leadership Changes

Matt Simon, former Vice President of Disney Springs, will take over EPCOT as its new Vice President. Simon has been the Vice President of Disney Springs since July 2018. Prior to that, Simon held roles in other companies.

Simon has been a visible presence at Disney Springs, where he can often be seen interacting with guests and assisting Cast Members.

Matt Simon

With Simon’s move to EPCOT, current EPCOT VP Kartika Rodriguez will become the VP of Experience Optimization. Rodriguez had been the VP of EPCOT since March 2021.

Rodriguez has worked for Disney for more than 15 years and started as a manager of Walt Disney World Industrial Engineering back in 2006. Prior to becoming EPCOT VP, Rodriguez served as the General Manager of EPCOT Park Arrival & Outdoor Vendor.

Scott Mallwitz (left), Kartika Rodriguez (right) at the 2023 Destination D23 event

Heading back to Disney Springs, the new Vice President of Walt Disney World’s shopping and dining complex will be Debbie Hart. Hart is currently the Vice President, Food & Beverage and Merchandise at the Walt Disney World Resort.

As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!