VP of Disney’s Hollywood Studios Phil Holmes Announces Retirement in August 2020

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Vice President Phil Holmes announced that he will be retiring from the Walt Disney World Resort in August 2020 after almost 50 years with the company.

Holmes started his career in 1971 delivering blueprints to construction sites throughout the Magic Kingdom Park. He has handled a number of roles and locations as a Cast Member, including Attractions Host in Magic Kingdom Park and leadership roles in Bus Operations and Training and Development. A run of theme park openings followed, including EPCOT, Disney-MGM Studios and Euro Disneyland.

Serving most recently as a park vice president, Holmes was at the helm of opening and operating groundbreaking new experiences, starting with New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park and culminating with last year’s debut of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Walt Disney president Josh D’Amaro said this about Holmes –

“Phil has had a tremendous impact on Walt Disney World Resort during his nearly 50-year career. His legacy will be his outstanding leadership and passion for the guest and Cast experience.  We’ll miss him, but we’re thrilled he will be with us through August, and we’ll be sure to celebrate his countless accomplishments before his departure.”

Holmes will be joining his wife Linda in retirement. They first met at Magic Kingdom Park.  He looks forward to spending more time with family, especially their two granddaughters.

Author: Ray

I am a lifelong fan of everything Disney. My first trip to a a Disney park was to Disneyland as a child in 1970, but didn't make to Walt Disney World until I went with my wife and first child in 1990. A year doesn't go by with out at least one trip to either Disneyland or Walt Disney World. My wife and I are Disney Vacation Club members and also Charter Members of D23. View all posts by Ray