Entravision Chairman-CEO Walter F. Ulloa Dies At 74

Spanish-language media firm Entravision said today that Walter F. Ulloa, its chairman and chief executive officer, died after a heart attack on Dec. 31, 2022. He was 74 years old.

Entravision’s Board of Directors issued the following statement:

“We are profoundly saddened by the sudden passing of Walter Ulloa and extend our heartfelt condolences to Walter’s wife, son and entire family. Since founding Entravision more than 25 years ago, Walter has been an exceptional leader who transformed the company from a traditional multi-linear Spanish-language company that currently owns and operates approximately 100 domestic television and radio stations, to a global digital media powerhouse with a footprint that today reaches across more than 40 countries. Well-known and respected throughout the media industry, Walter’s passion, energy, and devotion to our company will be greatly missed. We have lost a leader and a friend.

“Thanks to Walter’s dynamic leadership, Entravision has assembled an experienced management team that will continue to drive the company’s long-term growth strategy as we serve our customers, our partners, and our shareholders.”

The board also announced today that it has appointed Chris Young, chief financial officer and treasurer, as interim chief executive officer, effective immediately. Mr. Young has over two decades of experience in banking and corporate finance across the media, advertising and technology industries and has served as Treasurer and CFO of Entravision since 2008. He originally joined Entravision in August 2000 as CFO of the company’s outdoor advertising division, of which he became president in February 2004 prior to the division’s sale in May 2008.

The board of directors will continue to meet to discuss matters related to the orderly transition and is conducting a search for a full-time replacement for the role of chief executive officer.

The company added: “Ulloa was a visionary in Spanish language broadcasting with nearly five decades of experience in television, radio and digital media. He co-founded Entravision in 1996, becoming the chairman and chief executive officer of the company, roles he held until his death.

Ulloa served as director and chairman of Entravision’s board of directors since February 2000. From 1976 to 1989, he worked at KMEX-TV Los Angeles as operations manager, production manager, news director, local sales manager and account executive. This was followed by seven years in development, management and ownership of Entravision’s predecessor entities.

NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt made this statement: “Walter Ulloa was an outstanding ambassador for Spanish-language television and radio through his decades of leadership at Entravision. He gave back to his community through service on multiple boards and organizations, including the NAB Leadership Foundation board of directors. Our hearts are with Walter’s family and our friends at Entravision during this difficult time.”