Latin Recording Academy President/CEO Gabriel Abaroa Extends Contract Five Years

Despite hinting last year to Billboard that his tenure with The Latin Recording Academy could come to an end after 2014, Gabriel Abaroa, the organization’s president/CEO, has extended his contract with the Academy five more years, through 2019.

Abaroa, who became president of the Academy in 2003 and was promoted to president/CEO in 2010, had one year remaining in his contract. Last year, during an interview with Billboard, he said he was contemplating “passing the baton [..] maybe in two years, maybe five,” although he noted that wouldn’t happen before the Latin Grammy’s 15th year anniversary in 2014, a milestone for both the award show and the organization.

Today, following its annual spring meeting, the Academy’s Board of Trustees announced Abaroa would stay on far beyond that.

"Gabriel is an exceptional leader whose collaborative, inclusive personality and extensive experience and relationships across all aspects of music and entertainment have delivered dynamic financial and cultural benefits to The Latin Academy, while working side by side with the Board of Trustees," said board chair Laura Tesoriero. "As a longtime elected leader and industry executive, he is expertly qualified to understand and address the ongoing needs of the Latin music community in the ever-evolving industry.”

Based out of Miami, Abaroa reports to the Board of Trustees, which also announced new leadership today.

Tesoriero, the CEO of Argentine indie label EPSA Music and a member of the board for several years, was elected as the first female chair of the organization. In addition,  Marcelo Castello Branco, founder/CEO of Brazil-based MCB (Music Content Branding) was elected vice chair; veteran Dominican star Johnny Ventura was elected secretary and Luis Villanueva, president/CEO of Somos TV was elected Treasurer. Outgoing chair of the board Luis Cobos was elected Chair Emeritus.