Meruelo Media CEO Otto Padron to Exit Company

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 18, 2025 | 12:11pm CT

Otto Padron

Otto Padron will be stepping down as President and CEO of Meruelo Media at the end of February, with Tomas Trujillo, currently the Senior Vice President of Finance and Operations, set to succeed him. Padron has played a crucial role in expanding Meruelo Media's reach during his leadership, notably with the acquisition of KLOS-FM in Los Angeles from Cumulus Media. Prior to his time at Meruelo Media, Padron was the Senior VP of Programming at Univision.

In a memo to his colleagues, Padron expressed his mixed emotions about his departure:

"To the Meruelo Media Village,

As I prepare to close this chapter and step down as your President and CEO at the end of this month, I am filled with mixed emotions. It's time to pass the torch to Tomas, who I am confident will continue to lead with the same intensity and passion that he has always shown.

Nearly 14 years ago, we embarked on a mission to become the premier minority-owned media company in the US. I have poured my name, soul, skill, and reputation into making that dream a reality. Together, we've grown every facet of our company, transforming our operations in one of the toughest media markets in the US, and turning our initial single-station setup into a powerful conglomerate of top TV and Radio brands. This includes not only KWHY-TV and KDAY but also POWER, KLOS, CALI-FM, and others. Today, we stand as the largest and fastest-growing minority-owned and veteran-operated media company in California. I am proud of what we've achieved and grateful to have been your leader. Be proud of yourselves as well.

I'm excited for the next phase of my life, where I will launch a Media Strategies company named ACTIFY. This new chapter will keep me connected with many of you and involved in innovative media projects.

Thank you to our exceptional team and on-air talent for making this company a home. I'm also grateful to Alex and Luis for their support as I transition into this new stage of my career.

I look forward to celebrating our accomplishments together in the coming days. Here's to health, success, and bright futures for all as you continue your journey with Meruelo."