How many years have you been a judge?

This is my first year!

What’s the most challenging part about your job and/or the industry?

One of the most challenging aspects of my job, and the media and entertainment industry as a whole, is the constant and rapid evolution of technology. The pace of change requires us to continuously innovate and adapt, whether it’s new digital platforms, advancements in production techniques like virtual production, or shifts in audience consumption patterns. Staying ahead of these trends while ensuring that our teams are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge can be demanding but is also essential to our success.

Another significant challenge is balancing creativity with business strategy. The media landscape is highly competitive, and while we strive to push the boundaries of creativity, we must also ensure that each project is commercially viable and sustainable. Managing this balance requires a careful mix of strategic thinking, risk management, and a deep understanding of the markets we operate in.

Finally, working across different countries and cultures, particularly in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, presents its own complexities. Each market has its unique needs, regulations, and consumer behaviors, so part of the challenge is tailoring our approach to meet those demands while maintaining the overall cohesion and vision of Mediapro. Despite these challenges, they are what make the role so exciting and fulfilling.

What do you look for to determine excellence in video and television?

When evaluating excellence in video and television, I look for a combination of creativity, storytelling, and technical execution. At its core, great content must connect with audiences emotionally—whether through compelling characters, a powerful narrative, or a unique perspective that challenges conventional thinking. Creativity is key, but it must serve the story, helping to elevate the viewer’s experience.

From a technical standpoint, excellence means flawless production quality. This includes everything from lighting, sound, and cinematography to post-production elements like editing and visual effects. High standards in these areas ensure the content is polished and immersive. I also pay close attention to how well the production team has leveraged new technologies—whether it’s virtual production, innovative camera techniques, or advanced digital platforms—to push boundaries and create something truly innovative.

Another critical aspect is audience engagement. No matter how technically or creatively impressive a piece may be, it must resonate with its intended audience. I look for content that not only entertains but sparks conversation, inspires action, or leaves a lasting impression. Ultimately, excellence in video and television is achieved when creative vision, technical expertise, and audience connection come together seamlessly.

How do you unwind from work mode?

To unwind from work mode, I make it a priority to completely disconnect and engage in activities that allow me to recharge both mentally and physically. One of my favorite ways to do this is by spending time outdoors—I usually go for a walk on the beach or swim in the ocean. I can then gain perspective after long days of meetings and decision-making.

In your experience, what is a significant change happening in the video and television industry, and what insight can you share about how to navigate it?

One of the most significant changes is happening in how the audiences consume content: they expect on-demand access, personalized viewing experiences, and content that speaks to their specific interests. This shift has led to a fragmented media landscape.

To navigate this transformation, adaptability and innovation are essential. Embracing new technologies like AI-driven content recommendations, virtual production, and interactive media is key to staying relevant. At Mediapro, we’ve made it a priority to incorporate these innovations, not only to enhance production quality but also to deliver more engaging, immersive experiences for viewers. For example, we’ve integrated augmented reality into sports broadcasting, creating interactive, dynamic viewing experiences that capture audience attention in new ways.

Additionally, understanding audience behavior has never been more critical. The use of data analytics is indispensable—companies that can effectively harness this data to identify trends, tailor content, and optimize distribution strategies will hold a significant advantage. This means keeping a pulse on audience preferences, tracking viewing habits, and continuously iterating based on real-time feedback.

Another aspect to consider is the rise of global content. With streaming platforms breaking down geographic barriers, the demand for diverse, multilingual content has grown rapidly. Navigating this trend requires producing content that resonates not just locally, but on a global scale. For us at Mediapro, this means creating content that’s universally appealing while staying true to the cultural nuances of each market we operate in.

Finally, collaboration is more critical than ever. The convergence of technology and media means that building strong partnerships across sectors—whether with tech companies, content creators, or distribution platforms—will be crucial for long-term success. By fostering these collaborations and staying flexible in the face of change, companies can thrive in this evolving media landscape.

What’s a work tool you use every day and what’s one that is obsolete that you wish still existed?

One tool I use every day is collaboration and project management software. In a company as dynamic and geographically diverse as Mediapro, these platforms are essential for keeping everyone aligned, facilitating communication across teams, and managing projects efficiently. They help us track progress, share ideas in real time, and maintain the agility we need to respond quickly in a fast-paced industry. Especially with teams spread across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, having a centralized system for collaboration keeps us all on the same page, no matter where we are.

As for a tool that’s becoming old, I’d say face-to-face brainstorming sessions without digital distractions. While we still hold in-person meetings, the nature of our work has shifted toward remote collaboration and virtual environments. There’s something uniquely productive about gathering a team in a room with just a whiteboard and markers, free from devices and notifications. The energy, spontaneity, and depth of those in-person sessions often sparked creative breakthroughs that are harder to replicate in today’s more digital, sometimes fragmented, working environments.

What are your current roles and responsibilities and what do you love most about your job?

As the CEO of Mediapro North America, my primary role involves overseeing the strategic direction and operational management of our activities across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. This includes driving business growth, expanding our presence in key markets, and ensuring that we remain at the forefront of innovation in the media and entertainment industry. I’m responsible for leading a talented team, guiding the development of cutting-edge content, managing audiovisual and sports production services, and exploring new technologies that enhance our capabilities, such as virtual production and sports broadcasting advancements.

What I love most about my job is the dynamic nature of the industry. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities, whether it’s working on groundbreaking projects, embracing new technologies, or collaborating with some of the most creative minds in the business. Being able to shape the future of media, particularly in a time when the landscape is evolving so rapidly, is incredibly rewarding. I also take great pride in helping to foster innovation and in leading a diverse team that is passionate about creating high-quality, impactful content for global audiences.