Spanish-language media giant TelevisaUnivision has appointed a new chief executive officer as the company navigates changes in the media landscape. Daniel Alegre, formerly the president and chief operating officer of video game company Activision Blizzard, will replace Wade Davis as CEO effective September 19. Davis will remain on as vice chairman of the board of directors.
The change was unexpected, coming late Wednesday, and signals TelevisaUnivision’s focus on adapting to new technologies. Alegre brings over 30 years of experience leading technology and entertainment businesses. He spent 16 years at internet giant Google and oversaw global operations in the U.S., Mexico, and Latin America at Activision Blizzard.
“I am excited to lead TelevisaUnivision during this time of transformation in media,” Alegre said. He acknowledged the importance of serving Spanish-speaking audiences in the U.S. and Mexico. Davis helped form TelevisaUnivision through the merger of Univision and Mexican broadcaster Grupo Televisa in 2022. Under his lead, the company grew revenue and became the largest Spanish-language streaming service.
However, some insiders suggest Davis’s abrupt departure may relate to lower-than-expected revenues causing stakeholder concern. TelevisaUnivision did not address these issues in its statements. Executive chairman Alfonso de Angoitia praised Davis’s accomplishments but said Alegre’s international experience with technology and digital platforms positions him well to guide the company’s next phase of growth.
As media consumption shifts to streaming, TelevisaUnivision aims to leverage its large Spanish-language content library. Industry observers will watch how Alegre balances television with expanding the company’s digital footprint using his background in technology and gaming. The leadership transition comes amid other organizational changes, including popular news anchor Jorge Ramos leaving at year’s end. How TelevisaUnivision adapts to the evolving media world while serving Spanish audiences will be under close scrutiny.
