Carlos Núñez, the president of Prisa Media, has officially stepped down from his role, following significant internal conflicts within the management team. This decision was confirmed just one day after the company’s board rejected a proposal to invest in a new television project led by Content Director José Miguel Contreras and supported by Video Director Fran Llorente.
Joseph Oughourlian, the president and principal shareholder of Prisa, emphasized the need for change, stating in an interview with Expansión, "Investing in DTT (digital terrestrial television) in 2025 does not seem like a future project to me." This statement reflects his commitment to reevaluATING the direction of the company and the leadership team, where significant exits of executives like Contreras and Llorente are being prepared.
Núñez, who joined Prisa Media back in 2021 after serving as the general director at Henneo, has been credited with several achievements, including the constant growth of the company's revenues and EBITDA. During his tenure, he modernized management practices and led digital transformation efforts across various verticals of the media group.
He stated, "These years have been very intense and rewarding because, thanks to everyone's effort, we have opened new paths for the group. We've laid the groundwork for a promising future, both for the company and its talented professionals." His resignation, which takes effect immediately, opens up the opportunity for the board to analyze potential replacements, as well as the current structure and effectiveness of the management team.
Prisa Media has also announced plans to simplify its governance model by reducing the number of board members from 15 to 11. This decision is part of broader restructuring efforts approved during the latest board meeting, which also acknowledged and thanked Núñez for his considerable contributions during his time at the helm.
“The Compensation, Appointments, and Corporate Governance Committee will assess the current board makeup, focusing on the individual and collective suitability of its members for their functions,” the company announced. They plan to submit proposals for this restructuring to the next General Shareholders' Meeting.
This leadership shift occurs amid growing tension within the company, as Oughourlian seeks to reshape Prisa’s strategy. Reports have emerged about Oughourlian canceling plans for new television ventures, casting doubt on the future of television projects initially spearheaded by Núñez. The immediate focus now will be on consolidatingsuccessful media lines such as print and radio journalism, which have historically received strong support from audiences.
Industry insiders note the significance of these changes. Affected members are cognizant of the competitive media climate, and the resignation of high-ranking executives could signal more substantial adjustments within the organization’s structure. Stakeholders are curious about potential successors for Núñez, especially considering the pressing need for innovative and forward-thinking management.
Oughourlian’s recent actions have sparked conversations within Prisa about accountability and future company direction. He has expressed willingness to part ways with those who do not meet performance expectations, reflecting his rigorous management style compacted with high standards for efficiency and growth.
At the moment, the fate of several leading executives remains uncertain. Speculations abound about the possible exits of those like Llorente and Contreras, with many watching closely to see how the organization reallocates roles and responsibilities following Núñez’s departure.
The broader media industry will be watching how Prisa navigates this tumultuous period. Will the restructuring lead to enhanced focus on already-strong ventures, or will it incite new challenges as the company aims to reestablish its footing? Observers are particularly interested to see if Prisa will pivot toward more innovative digital strategies as part of its forthcoming plans.
Stakeholders await the outcomes of these developments with bated breath, as the company focuses on adapting strategies amid economic shifts and rapid media transformations. The path forward may define not only the success of Prisa Media but also affect the larger media ecosystem for years to come. This moment marks not just the closing of one chapter for Prisa Media but the potential beginning of another, as changes could ripple through the organization and influence its future success.