José Cancela serves as President of Telemundo Station Group, NBCUniversal Local’s Spanish-language media portfolio that’s highlighted by Telemundo-owned stations in 31 markets across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, including in each of the Top 20 U.S. Hispanic TV markets.

In this role, which he’s held since January 2024, Cancela provides strategic and operational leadership across all areas of the business and oversees its executive team and station general managers. He also works closely with NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises.

Cancela is a media-industry veteran more than 35 years of leadership experience, and more than four decades in the Spanish-language marketplace. Prior to his current position, Cancela spent nearly 12 years as President & General Manager of Telemundo Puerto Rico / WKAQ. 

During his tenure with WKAQ, which began in 2012, Cancela oversaw continual advancement. His leadership led to significant growth in the station’s news and entertainment content, expanding local programming from 15 hours a week in 2012 to more than 70 hours today. 

Cancela’s impact elevated WKAQ’s relevance with audiences, value with advertisers, and overall competitive position, which greatly expanded its reach and profitability. Cancela also guided the station’s community programs that support and serve residents across Puerto Rico.

Cancela joined WKAQ from KVEA / Telemundo 52 Los Angeles, where he was President & General Manager. Previously, he served as President of Radio Unica and Hispanic USA Inc., a marketing firm. He was also President & COO of Telemundo Station Group from 1992 to 1998. 

Cancela began his career as a sales trainee for Miami’s WLTV – eventually rising to lead the Univision station – after serving in the U.S. Air Force. He’s the author of ‘The Power of Business en Espanol: 7 Fundamental Keys to Unlocking the Potential of the Spanish-Language Market.’