otto padron biography

Otto Padrón

Early Life & Background

Otto Miguel Padrón is a Cuban-born American media executive and retired U.S. Army Colonel. He immigrated from Cuba to the United States and was inspired by his father, who worked as a broadcast engineer in Spanish-language television.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications & Economics from the University of Miami, an MBA from Florida International University School of Business, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.

Military Career

Padrón enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1983, serving in the elite 75th Ranger Regiment (Airborne) and later in the Army Reserve. He served for 38 years and retired as a Colonel in January 2022.

His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Legion of Merit, Ranger Tab, Pathfinder Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and Combat Infantryman Badge — all recognizing his distinguished and combat service.

Media & Corporate Career

After or alongside his military service, Padrón transitioned into media and broadcasting.

• He held senior programming roles at both major U.S. Spanish-language networks — Univision and Telemundo — making him one of the few executives to have worked at both.
• At Univision, he oversaw content development and programming operations with budgets exceeding $500 million and teams of more than 300 people.
• Later, he became President and CEO of Meruelo Media, a minority-owned media group based in California. Under his leadership, the company expanded its portfolio to include major stations such as KLOS 95.5 FM, KDAY 93.5 FM, Power 106, KLLI 93.9 FM, and TV stations KWHY-TV 22 and KBEH-TV 63.
• In 2014, he directed the design and construction of a multimillion-dollar broadcast and studio center in Los Angeles for Meruelo Media’s operations.

Civic & Leadership Roles

Otto Padrón continues to contribute to civic and leadership initiatives:

• He serves on the FCC Communications Equity & Diversity Council, representing minority and veteran interests in broadcasting.
• He is Vice-Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce’s Walk of Fame Committee.
• He also serves on the Board of Convention & Tourism Development Commissioners for the City of Los Angeles.

Personal Life

Padrón often highlights his immigrant roots, military background, and passion for diversity in media leadership. He married Mexican actress and singer Angélica Vale in 2011.

Why He’s Notable

• Bridges two distinct worlds — elite military service and high-level media leadership.
• Advocates for veteran and minority representation in U.S. media.
• Led one of the most dynamic expansions of a Latino-owned media company in the U.S