Leading Spanish-language network Univision has named former AOL and NBC executive Randy Falco its new president CEO, just five months after he joined the company as its chief operating officer.
Falco's timing was impeccable — and intriguing. His recruitment in January suggested the company felt the need to bolster its management roster, and former president and CEO Joe Uva announced his resignation two months later. Now Falco has his former boss' job.
Also read: Randy Falco Named New Univision COO
He takes over the company as it mounts an ambitious effort to leapfrog the English-language networks. In February, Uva predicted that Univision would become the best-rated network in the U.S. in any language within five years.
The company frequently tops one or more of the major networks in primetime viewers.
Also read: Univision President and CEO Joe Uva Resigns
Falco, who will be based in New York, will also become a member of the Univision Board of Directors.
"I am thrilled to take on the role of Chief Executive Officer," he said in a statement. "Univision has been at the forefront of innovation and has grown its competitive position while continuing to serve and advocate for the important U.S. Hispanic community. I’m excited to lead a company with such tremendous growth potential and look forward to continuing to work with such an exceptional leadership team."
As COO, he oversaw oversee advertising sales, distribution sales and affiliate relations, as well as operations of the company’s television and radio station groups, corporate marketing, research, and business development.
Falco is the former chairman and chief executive officer of AOL and president and chief operating officer of NBC Universal Television Group.