TelevisaUnivision Considers Leadership Change, CEO Wade Davis May Be Replaced

TelevisaUnivision, a key player in Spanish-language media, is reportedly considering replacing its CEO, Wade Davis, in a major leadership shakeup, according to sources familiar with the discussions, the New York Times reports.

The company’s board is expected to meet this week to evaluate the proposal, which could see Daniel Alegre, former CEO of gaming company Activision Blizzard, take over the role.

Wade Davis, who played a pivotal role in bringing Univision and Televisa together in a $4.8 billion merger in 2022, would remain with the company as a shareholder and serve on its board of directors as vice chairman, according to insiders. Davis had led the acquisition of Univision in 2020, buying out private-equity owners and working to turn the company around by emphasizing streaming and expanding Univision’s digital offerings.

Under his leadership, the company launched streaming services such as Vix and PrendeTV, helping Univision increase its ad revenue by 8% in 2023. However, despite these efforts, TelevisaUnivision has struggled to meet financial targets and reduce its debt, which remains close to $9.8 billion.

Daniel Alegre, who has extensive experience in Hispanic media from his time at Google and BMG Music, is being considered to step into the CEO position. As TelevisaUnivision continues to face challenges in the evolving media landscape, including reduced profits and shifting viewer habits, this potential leadership change could mark a significant new chapter for the company.

The outcome of the board meeting and any resulting changes are yet to be confirmed.