The Walt Disney Company

Operating Participants Mgr

The Walt Disney Company • $104K — $128K *
Hospitality & Recreation
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of leadership experience working with internal partners and external clients
  • Operational management experience in retail, hospitality, parks, or real estate development
  • Skills in strategic problem solving and practical business solutions
  • Proven ability to communicate effectively with executive-level partners
  • Strong negotiation skills, particularly regarding lease agreements
  • Experience in project management and developing effective business relationships
  • Solid financial acumen, including understanding of financial statements

Responsibilities

  • Manage and develop existing Operating Participant Tenants
  • Integrate third-party operators into the Disney culture and ensure compliance with standards
  • Negotiate lease amendments and manage leasing terms
  • Oversee project development and renovations for OP venues
  • Enhance guest experience through diversified offerings and streamlined processes
  • Nurture relationships with internal and external business partners
  • Maintain departmental policies and develop tools for performance analysis

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical benefits
  • Retirement savings plan options
  • Opportunity for bonuses or long-term incentives
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Flexible work environment to accommodate competing priorities
Full Job Description

Job Posting Title:

Operating Participants Mgr

Req ID:

Job Description:

Location – Anaheim, CA


Job Posting - Operating Participants Manager


The Operating Participants organization develops and implements strategies related to the procurement and subsequent management of unique and relevant third party “Operating Participant (“OP”)” relationships within Disney Theme Parks, Resorts, Retail, Dining and Entertainment (RD&E) environments as well as any other businesses operated by an OP which supports or enhances the overall Guest Experience at the Disneyland Resort.


General Responsibilities:            

The Operating Participants Manager will have the primary responsibility of managing and developing a varied portfolio of existing Operating Participant Tenants in alignment with organizational priorities and business needs. Specifically, the Manager will be responsible for integrating a third-party owner/operator successfully into the Disney culture while understanding Tenant obligations and ensuring compliance with Disney Standards for Operating Participant hotels, retail, restaurant, recreation, cart & kiosk, and service provider operations.  The Manager will assist with the development of OP business recommendations to their leader, presenting to executive stakeholders, negotiating leases, and supporting the onboarding of the Tenant team.  The Manger will also be responsible for overseeing concept development, design and construction activities related to renovations and refurbishments of venues currently open for operation and/or new venues prior to opening to the public. Additionally, this role will provide operational expertise needed to support the business development team and master planning efforts of large-scale future tenant related projects. While this role will have the support of the Operating Participants’ organization, the person in this role is expected to be able to work independently, communicate at the appropriate level and frequency, lean on their business acumen, be resourceful and skilled in leveraging strong networking with internal and external partners to;

·       Drive business performance of your portfolio

·       Diversify the Guest experience through enhanced products.

·       Streamline effective processes.

·       Prioritize work, stay nimble and focused on key priorities.

·       Ensure OP Tenants deliver on product and service excellence focusing on the Five Keys.
 

LEASE MANAGEMENT:

Partner with stakeholders to negotiate Lease Amendments, Services Agreements, letter Agreements and Lease renewal terms related to their portfolio accounts. In addition, this role will be expected to develop and maintain existing lease database/documentation and ensure any changes to deal terms are accurately documented.     Partner with Program Development (PD) Team on all OP design review meetings/coordinate tenant drawing submittals to Disney internal stakeholders/partners and track progress, prepare mitigation/contingency plans and identify any applicable risks to Disney stakeholders, monitor Lease obligations to ensure delivery dates required by lease are met, and leverage tenant design criteria manuals provided by PD.  Drive onboarding and project closeout efforts.


ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT:

Act as Lease administrator or “Landlord” by coordinating of all approval processes, partnering with key internal partners  including WDI (Walt Disney Imagineering); adherence to Disney standards, ensure routine operational audits are conducted and action plans are established and managed; act as owner’s representative on new projects; assist with development, documentation and implementation of any new processes and procedures.

 

GUESTS/CLIENT SATISFACTION:

Nurture internal and external business relationships at corporate executive and local levels; develop, drive and manage Operating Participant business opportunities; provide guidance and support to Disney operational leadership and LOB/functional key stakeholders.


CAST EXCELLENCE/DEPARTMENT:

Maintenance and development of departmental operating guidelines, policies and procedures; build alliances with key internal and external stakeholders, at all levels of the organization to articulate an understanding of the value of Operating Participant business, make informed recommendations, be a trusted resource, influential partner and consultant in tenanting strategy. Actively enhance and/or develop tools to analyze, compare and communicate performance data to all stakeholders.


Basic Qualifications:       

·       Candidates must have minimum 3 years leadership experience working with internal partners in addition to the ability to interface effectively with external clients in a business setting.

·       Operational management experience and expertise in retail, food & beverage, hotel, parks and/or real estate management/development experience.

·       Proven capability to manage and drive strategic problem solving and the development of practical business solutions.

·       Proven self-starter; motivated and eager to learn as well as teach.

·       Proven ability to communicate in a highly organized, persuasive, confident and credible manner when dealing with executive level partners (internally and externally).

·       Proven ability to lead and serve as subject matter expert related to lease enforcement efforts.

·       Demonstrated success as an effective leader and partner.

·       Demonstrated ability to be a strong team collaborator approaching work and learnings in a positive manner.

·       Demonstrated skills in developing and maintaining effective business relationships.

·       Demonstrated skills/experience with successful Project Management.

·       Strong negotiation skills, specifically negotiation of lease Agreement deal terms for new Leases or renewal of existing Lease Agreements.

·       Ability to work in a flexible environment with competing priorities able to  multi-task.

·       Skilled verbal and written communication skills with proven ability to facilitate challenging discussions in a professional manner.

·       Solid financial acumen; ability to manage/forecast business trends; understanding of financial statements (P&L, Cash Flow).

·       Experience working with contractual agreements; ability to manage legal contracts/agreements.

·       Ability to influence Tenants and internal stakeholders.

·       Demonstrated ability to work well in a fast-paced, dynamic Team environment.

·       Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).


Required Education

Bachelor’s degree in business related field or equivalent


Preferred Education

Master’s degree in business related field or equivalent


#twdcmedia #corp_media

The hiring range for this position in Anaheim, CA is $104,800.00 to $128,000.00per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:

Finance

Job Posting Primary Business:

Global Development, OP & International Finance

Primary Job Posting Category:

Operating Participants - Account Management

Employment Type:

Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Anaheim, CA, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:

2026-09-25

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company started as a cartoon studio and evolves into sports coverage and television shows. Using the company's portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services, and consumer products, Walt Disney seeks to develop creative, innovative, and profitable entertainment experiences and related products.

The Walt Disney Company Careers

Join the magical world of The Walt Disney Company, a place where dreams come true and imagination meets innovation. As a global leader in entertainment and media, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that invite you to be part of a beloved brand known for its influential culture, diversity, and dynamic growth. Work You’ll Do Embark on a career journey with The Walt Disney Company and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of media and entertainment. Engage in work that matters, contributes to storytelling excellence, and brings joy to millions around the globe. Transform your professional life by joining a team that values creativity, leadership, and visionary thinking. The Walt Disney Company stands at the forefront of industry innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in entertainment and beyond. Lead with us from a unique position in the marketplace, where your skills in technology, creativity, and management converge to create extraordinary experiences. Collaborate with a diverse group of talented professionals, united in their passion for delivering magical experiences. Our team at The Walt Disney Company is composed of over 200,000 dedicated individuals who thrive in an environment that fosters growth, mentorship, and innovation. Introducing The Walt Disney Company Leadership and Professional Growth Programs We are committed to developing leaders who can navigate the challenges of the digital era and drive success across our various business segments. Our leadership programs are designed to hone your skills and prepare you for executive roles within the company. Do Innovative Work Join our team and contribute to projects that redefine the entertainment landscape. From groundbreaking films and television series to pioneering technological advancements, your work at The Walt Disney Company will set new standards in the creative and business worlds. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking. Work alongside the best in the business and see how diversity and inclusion fuel our creativity and success. The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to a diverse workforce is evident in our hiring practices, training programs, and our everyday operations. Future-Proof Your Career With a wide array of benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and a network of supportive colleagues, your career at The Walt Disney Company is equipped for longevity and success. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health care, employee discounts, and access to exclusive company events and previews. Explore Job Opportunities and Internships Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a transformative internship, The Walt Disney Company offers positions across a spectrum of fields and disciplines. Explore our career portal to find job opportunities that match your skills and passions. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions, apply through our streamlined application process, and take the first step towards a magical career. We look for individuals who are passionate, curious, and eager to contribute to our legacy of storytelling and innovation. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and insider perspectives—all from the people who make The Walt Disney Company a place of inspiration and excitement. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and updates that align with your career interests. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at The Walt Disney Company. Join us, and be part of the magic that only happens here at The Walt Disney Company!
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company
Size
190,000 employees
Market Cap
$155.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$4.9 billion
Founded
1923
5 Year Trend
+3.9%
Revenue
$60.7 billion
NASDAQ

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