MediaCo has approved new multi-year employment agreements for President and CEO Albert Rodriguez and EVP, CFO, and Treasurer Debra DeFelice, outlining updated salary structures, bonuses, and equity awards tied to long-term company performance.
Rodriguez, who was initially given the CEO role on an interim basis, will see his annual base salary increase from $700,000 to $850,000, rising to $900,000 in September 2026 and $950,000 in September 2027. Under the terms of his agreement, He is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus of up to 60% of his base salary and severance equal to six months’ salary if terminated without cause or due to disability.
The contracts come after Rodriguez declared the multicultural-focused broadcaster in “growth mode” following a third-quarter rise in revenue driven by digital and video advertising gains. Digital revenue climbed to $17 million, accounting for nearly half of total ad sales. Despite a $7.1 million operating loss and a wider net loss due to a non-cash charge, Rodriguez said MediaCo remains positioned to expand its audio, video, and distribution platforms.
EstrellaTV recently ranked first among all broadcast networks in prime-time growth for Adults 18–49, up 65% year-over-year. MediaCo’s radio division also posted strong gains, with audiences in New York, Los Angeles, Riverside, Dallas, and Houston up 21% among Adults 25–54, reinforcing its position as one of the nation’s top-performing audio portfolios.
DeFelice’s contract raises her annual base salary from $450,000 to $550,000, with scheduled increases to $600,000 in 2026 and $650,000 in 2027. She is also eligible for a discretionary cash bonus of up to 60% of base pay and a similar severance structure.
Both executives’ agreements include six-month non-compete clauses, one-year non-solicitation provisions, and ongoing non-disparagement commitments.
In line with these agreements, MediaCo’s Compensation Committee approved a series of restricted and performance stock unit grants under the company’s Equity Compensation Plan, subject to shareholder approval of additional shares. Rodriguez’s package includes equity awards valued at approximately $5 million, while DeFelice’s totals about $2 million, each vesting over two to three years based on performance and service milestones.
