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Television

Lara's Exit Spurs TelevisaUnivision's Local Team Restructuring

2024-12-02

Miami is witnessing a significant shift as the world's largest producer of Spanish-language audio and video content embarks on what CEO Daniel Alegre deems "significant and necessary changes." These changes are set to strengthen the company's position for 2025 and beyond. The decisions are triggered, in part, by Jesus Lara's departure from TelevisaUnivision.

Internal Memo and Leadership Changes

In an internal memo shared with Radio + Television Business Report, Alegre revealed that Lara, who had risen to head TelevisaUnivision's local radio and TV assets in the US in May 2023, has decided to leave the company. The promotion of Lara to President of Local Media followed Diane Kniowski's retirement. Reporting directly to former CEO Wade Davis, Lara was responsible for leading the company's local TV and radio operations and sales efforts across the US. Alegre expressed his deep gratitude to Lara for his dedication and contributions over the past eight years.Jesus Lara's career journey is extensive. He joined what was then Univision Communications in January 2017 as GM of Digital, Content, and Entertainment for its radio division. Prior to that, he worked at Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS), serving as EVP of Digital Media Strategy from December 2013 through November 2016. From 2009 - 2014, he was a Fellow at the Americas Business Council Foundation. Professionally, he spent many years at Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN), serving as SVP/Music Programming, Marketing and Talent Strategy for MTV Internaciónl from June 2007 - July 2011. From 1998 - 2004, he held several positions at EMI Music, last as VP/Marketing and A&R out of the Miami Beach office.Lara's arrival at Univision was not part of the original plan. When hired, he took a role intended for Alejandro Nieto Molina, an executive from Grupo PRISA's Cadena SER. Nieto's appointment came in late January 2016, but he died of a heart attack at the age of 48 on Feb. 8.In response to Lara's departure, a reorganization of the US local teams is underway. Alegre is centralizing domestic advertising sales under the leadership of Donna Speciale, covering local and national, linear, digital, streaming, audio, and multiplatform video. This structure aims to ensure a single, solutions-oriented point of entry for US advertising partners. A reduction-in-force initiative is also part of the reorganization, with "workforce changes" taking place across TelevisaUnivision this week. Alegre assured that the company is committed to supporting everyone through the transition.

Electric Entertainment, a prominent US-based production and distribution firm, has recently made an exciting announcement. Ben Kim, a key figure within the company, has been promoted to the position of Head of Development and Acquisitions. This new role will see him continue to steer the development of all scripted TV and feature films while also taking on the responsibility of overseeing the company's global acquisitions and co-productions.

CEO's Praise for Ben Kim

Dean Devlin, the CEO of Electric Entertainment, expressed his admiration for Ben Kim. He stated, "Since Ben joined Electric Entertainment, his impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. His exceptional talent and sharp eye have been crucial in acquiring and producing some of our most outstanding films and TV series. Thanks to his unwavering dedication and expertise, we have successfully expanded into commissioning original content for our streaming app and FAST channel, ElectricNOW. We have every confidence that Ben will thrive in this new role and lead the company to even greater heights of success."

Expanding Scripted Development

In his new capacity, Ben Kim will build on his existing experience by taking charge of all scripted development for Electric Entertainment's streaming App and FAST channel, ElectricNOW. This channel recently announced its plans to commission original content, and two exciting projects - The Poly Couple and Sloane and the Cosmic Schlep - were unveiled at this year's MIPCOM. Kim's leadership will play a vital role in shaping the future of these original productions.For over a decade, Kim has been an integral part of Electric Entertainment. He joined the company as the VP of Development and has been instrumental in driving the company's continued growth. His deep understanding of the industry and his creative vision have been key factors in the company's success.

Impact on the Company's Future

With Ben Kim at the helm of Development and Acquisitions, Electric Entertainment is poised for an exciting future. His ability to identify and nurture talent, combined with his expertise in acquiring and producing high-quality content, will enable the company to expand its portfolio and reach a wider audience. The commissioning of original content for ElectricNOW is a significant step forward, and Kim's leadership will ensure that these projects are of the highest quality.In conclusion, Ben Kim's promotion to Head of Development and Acquisitions is a major milestone for Electric Entertainment. His experience, talent, and dedication make him the perfect candidate to lead the company into new territories and drive it towards even greater success.

Miami, a vibrant city in Florida, is witnessing a significant transaction in the media landscape. A low-power television station licensed to this largest of South Florida cities is set to be sold, with the facility being transferred to a licensee based in Tallahassee led by Kristina Bruni. This pending regulatory approval holds great importance for the local media scene.

Unraveling the Deal of Miami's Low-Power TV Station

The Purchase Details

Bruni-led Fair Play Broadcasting LLC is in the process of purchasing W03BU-D in Miami from Ministerio Oscar Aguero Inc. A purchase price of $450,000 has been agreed upon, with a $22,500 deposit made via wire transfer to the escrow agent Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth. Francisco Montero from the law firm served as the legal representative for the seller in this significant deal. After going dark under Special Temporary Authority, W03BU-D resumed operations at the end of the first quarter. Its signal covers nearly the entire Miami metropolitan area, except for the Redland and Homestead/Florida City to the south. The northern signal contour reaches the Broward County line, making it a crucial asset for the local community.

Other Purchases by Bruni-Led Fair Play

In recent months, Bruni-led Fair Play has also shown its interest in the media market by agreeing to purchase K35PJ-D in Santa Barbara, Calif. Additionally, they have acquired four LPTVs across the south from Jeff Winemiller's Lowcountry 34 Media. These acquisitions further expand their media portfolio and demonstrate their strategic vision in the industry.

The Impact on the Miami Area

The sale of this low-power television station will have a significant impact on the Miami area. It not only changes the ownership but also potentially influences the programming and content that reaches the local viewers. With a wide signal coverage, the station plays a vital role in keeping the community informed and entertained. It will be interesting to see how this transaction shapes the future of media in Miami and how it benefits the local population.