Walter Ulloa, founder of Entravision, has died. The company said its chairman and CEO passed away of a heart attack on New Year’s Eve at age 74.
Chris Young, the CFO and treasurer, was named interim CEO.
Entravision said in a statement: “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.”
The statement recalled his “passion, energy and devotion to our company.” It said the board is conducting a search for a full-time replacement.
Ulloa co-founded Entravision in 1996 and was served as director and chairman of the board since 2000.
NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt, president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters, called Ulloa “an outstanding ambassador for Spanish-language television and radio … He gave back to his community through service on multiple boards and organizations, including the NAB Leadership Foundation Board of Directors.”
The Latino Media Network called him “a true trailblazer in Latino media. He saw the value and promise of the Latino media industry before many others did. His north star was to serve our community and that he did, dedicating his life to that through his career and company at Entravision.”