Fox ups David Espinosa to distribution chief as Michael Biard joins Nexstar

David Espinosa

Fox in the US has promoted David Espinosa to president of distribution to replace Michael Biard, who is leaving after 23 years to become president and COO of Nexstar Media Group.

Espinosa previously served as EVP of distribution strategy and business affairs, having been promoted into the role in 2018 after first joining the firm in 2006.

He will take responsibility for Fox’s multiplatform content distribution for all brands, including Fox Entertainment, Fox Sports, Fox News and Tubi, while also managing distribution for Fox-affiliated TV stations in the US.

Biard meanwhile joins the US TV station group that took control of The CW last year, reporting to Nexstar chairman and CEO Perry Sook and taking up his role on 21 August, with a four-year contract running through August 2027.

He takes on the role from Thomas Carter, who has been named senior advisor, and will remain with Nexstar until the end of this year to help with the transition. Carter joined Nexstar as CFO in 2009 before his promotion to COO in 2020.

“Michael is a talented, innovative, and deeply experienced media executive who will be a great leader for Nexstar and the senior management team as we chart the future of the Company,” said Sook.

“David has been a valued member of the Fox team for 17 years and we are confident that his leadership and strategic insight will provide a seamless transition for the distribution team and our partners,” commented Fox COO John Nallen.