NBC Universo Hires Former Discovery Exec as Programming & Production Head

MIAMI: NBC Universo, a general-entertainment cable channel for Latinos, has appointed Bilai Joa Silar as senior VP of programming and production, effective April 27.

Silar will report to Rubén Mendiola, the president of NBC Universo. She will oversee the development and execution of the network's programming strategy to promote its continued growth and expand all areas of content acquisition, development and production. She will also collaborate with NBCUniversal's Hispanic Enterprise and Content, as well as NBCUniversal, on strategic programming opportunities.

Most recently, Silar worked for Discovery Communications as VP of content for Discovery U.S. Hispanic Networks, where she set the overall brand direction while planning and managing the execution of all programming, scheduling, marketing, communications and promotional strategy for Discovery en Español and Discovery Familia in the U.S., as well as for Discovery's factual portfolio in Latin America. She also contributed to the launch strategy of Discovery Kids, a popular preschool channel in Latin America.

"Bilai is an impressive business executive with deep roots in our industry, and possesses a strong track record of successfully programming TV networks," said Mendiola. "Her extensive experience and strategic approach targeting Hispanics will strongly benefit NBC Universo, as we continue our evolution towards being the top cable destination for world-class sports and entertainment for U.S. Latinos."