Wing T. Chao

Wing Tao Chao (born May 1944) is a Chinese-born American architect, master planner, construction developer, hospitality professional, and a former Disney Imagineer.

As an Imagineer, Chao helped with Disney's expansion in markets such as China and Hong Kong, handling businesses worth more than US$12 billion. He was with Disney for over 37 years, from 1972 to 2009, and led over 100 projects including Disneyland resorts, luxury hotels, and cruises. In 2009, he retired from Disney and joined Las Vegas Sands Corp. In August 2019, he was named a Disney Legend.

Chao is regarded as a pioneer in the fields of hospitality and construction planning and development. A Committee of 100 member and an AIA fellow, he has received numerous honors throughout his career including the Pioneer Award from the International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) and Outstanding Achievement Award from the American Institute of Architects. Avenue magazine has included Chao among the 500 most influential Asians in the United States. He also oversaw the development of Disney's land holdings in California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris and Hong Kong.

During his time at Disney, Chao led development teams consisting of Disney Imagineers and leading architects and designers on over a hundred projects including Disney theme parks and resort hotel rooms. Chao has also led the design and development of four Disney cruise ships, namely Disney Magic, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wonder. Chao has handled businesses worth more than USD $12 billion over his term at Disney.

Notable works at Disney

Resorts: Disneyland Paris Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Tokyo Disneyland Cruise ships: Disney Magic Disney Wonder Disney Dream Disney Fantasy

Las Vegas Sands Chao served as a Director for Las Vegas Sands Corp. from July 2010 to November 2010.

Television Chao has appeared in three television shows produced by Disney.

The Imagineering Story as himself (2019) The Mandalorian as Governor Wing (2020) Star Wars: Tales of the Empire as Governor Wing (2024; voice)

Awards and recognition

Chao has received numerous accolades for his work in the hospitality sector. His works have earned him recognition awards in the architecture and design community.