Vrio, an AT&T Latin America Company and a leading digital entertainment provider, announced that Manuel De Abelleyra will move to a new role as an external consultant and strategic advisor of Vrio and AT&T. He will focus on strategic matters for Vrio and AT&T, including external and regulatory affairs, piracy and other matters. 

Michael Bowling has been named the president, DIRECTV Latin America, and will report to Melissa Arnoldi, Vrio CEO.

“Manuel has been a great leader in his ten years with the Company. He oversaw significant increases in subscribers, revenues and profits, and under his management, DIRECTV Latin America gained top rankings in Great Place to Work. We are extremely grateful for Manuel’s tremendous contributions, and we are thrilled that we will continue to benefit from his expertise in the region and in our industry,” said Arnoldi.

Bowling is recognized globally for his leadership in media and technology with vast experience in the region, including living in three different countries in Latin America for almost a decade. For the past four years, he has been a senior leader in Vrio and DIRECTV Latin America, including head of Strategy and Digital Transformation, as president of the North Region and his Board representation on AT&T’s investments in the region, including Torneos and WIN Sports.

Estanislau Bassols will continue as president of SKY Brasil.

“Michael has been instrumental to the success of Vrio, and has a firm understanding of our vision and the opportunities that will enable us to continue to be the #1 PayTV provider in Latin America,” added Arnoldi. “His vision and passion for our Company, our customers and our team members, combined with his technology and media expertise and love of the region make him the right leader to help us take DIRECTV Latin America to the next level.”