Sandra Smester is the Executive Vice President of Programming and Content Development for NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises. In this role, Smester oversees the development and execution of programming for the network. Smester is responsible for primetime and daytime programming, content acquisitions, long and short-term program planning and scheduling, and the company’s cable network Universo. Leveraging more than 27 years of experience in programming Spanish-language content for U.S. Hispanic audiences, Smester leads content programming across Telemundo networks while working closely with future development and current production teams, as well as Telemundo Global Studios. Smester reports to Ronald Day, President of Entertainment and Content Strategy at NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises. 

A long-time veteran of Spanish language media, Smester previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer at TV Azteca, where she oversaw content and distribution across the network’s linear and streaming offerings and drove the growth of the company’s share in Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and the U.S. Hispanic market. Previously, Smester was the Executive Vice President and General Manager of Azteca UNO, where she led the broadcast network through its brand transition and unprecedented performance of TV Azteca during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Prior to that, Smester held a series of leadership positions at Univision Communications, advancing to the role of Executive Vice President of Programming and Operations.

Smester is a member of the National Television Academy and the International Academy of Television Arts & Science and has been recognized with an array of industry accolades, including multiple EMMY® awards. She earned her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Communications from Florida International University in Miami, Florida.

Speaking on: Buyer Spotlights: Telemundo