Univision Radio Recruits Jesus Lara
By Inside Radio staff
After a year without a leader in the radio space, Univision Communications has named Jesus Lara general manager of Digital, Content and Entertainment for Radio. In the role, he will cmmandeer the Hispanic-focused media company’s radio business and oversee development and implementation of its digital, content creation, programming and entertainment efforts.
Univision says that Lara will also work closely with radio GMs nationwide and with leaders across Univision Local Media “to drive the creative vision and operational leadership of the radio business.”
Based in Miami, Lara will report to John Eck, chief local media officer, and work alongside UCI’s president of Music, Jorge Ferradas. Further to his mission, he is charged with ensuring continued alignment with the company’s “broader music strategy while leveraging UCI’s unique offerings in new and creative ways.”
Lara joins Univision with 20-plus years of experience leading digital, programming, content and marketing teams in the radio, music and entertainment industry. He most recently worked as executive VP of digital strategy at Spanish Broadcasting System, where he helped launched its LaMusica streaming service. He earlier held positions at Viacom and EMI.
His appointment comes nearly a year after the death of Alejandro Nieto, who passed away only days after his appointment as GM/senior VP of Univision Radio.
Eck noted, “Jesus is an accomplished and creative industry veteran with an entrepreneurial spirit and a unique blend of experiences in music, marketing and digital.” Added Ferradas, “Radio plays a fundamental role in the music industry and it is important that we have someone of Jesus’ caliber to lead this platform alongside our current team. His passion for music, team-player spirit and vast experience makes us extremely happy to count with him on our team.”
“I look forward to working closely with John and the senior management team, in positioning the radio group for the future with a renewed and keen focus on leveraging Univision’s strong culture, creating great content and developing powerful code,” Lara said.
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