Univision bolsters streaming team with Netflix hire ahead of global roll-out

Pierluigi Gazzolo

US-based Hispanic broadcaster Univision has hired former Netflix exec Augusto Rovegno to its new streaming leadership team, ahead of the launch of its new global streaming service.

Announced in June, the as-yet-unnamed Spanish-language streamer is set to replace the company’s existing PrendeTV, VIX and Univision NOW services. It will roll out in 2022 – beginning with the US and Latin America – and will offer both free ad-supported and premium subscription tiers.

Rovegno has been named SVP of acquisitions and SVOD programming for the service, which he joins from Netflix, where he served in various roles, including leading on original film development as well as the licensing and co-production of Spanish-language films and TV series.

In his new role, Rovegno will report to fellow Netfix alum, Rodrigo Mazon, EVP & GM, SVOD streaming, and will be responsible for sourcing and acquiring marquee content for both the AVOD and SVOD tiers, as well as developing original films, and curating and programming for the SVOD tier.

NerdWallet’s Cameron Carr has meanwhile been named EVP of data and insights for the team, while Mariela Stescobich joins from Hulu and Fox as SVP of marketing, user growth and retention for AVOD. Daniel Sanders arrives as SVP of engineering for streaming.

All four new hires will join the team in August, with these new appointments following on the heels of an overhaul of Univision’s senior leadership team last month. The shakeup came after Univision announced a merger with Televisa earlier this year.

“I am immensely proud of the strides we have taken thus far in Univision’s streaming evolution, including building an innovative platform, engaging renowned creators and setting the foundation for what will be the largest offering of Spanish-language content globally,” said Pierluigi Gazzolo, Univision’s president and chief transformation officer.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome these industry professionals who are now part of our streaming dream team, at this pivotal point in Univision’s transformation. Each of them brings a unique perspective that will strengthen our position as a global streaming leader.”