Hi, I’m
Manuel Ballagas
Miami,Florida
Summary
Bilingual editor, translator, and content creator with extensive expertise in newsroom management, translation, localization, and content strategy. A visionary leader who has successfully launched and optimized publications across multiple platforms, effectively engaging diverse audiences and driving editorial excellence. With a versatile professional background spanning news, politics, health, arts, entertainment, and technology, brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to deliver impactful content that resonates with readers.
Overview
41
years of professional experience
Work History
Billboard (Spanish Edition) & National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Contract Translator
01.2015 - Current
Job overview
- Deliver high-quality translations of editorial and informational content, ensuring linguistic accuracy and cultural relevance
- Collaborate with clients to refine messaging and enhance audience engagement
- Pursue creative writing projects during personal time, further honing storytelling skills
Hispania (Miami-based Multicultural PR Firm)Miami, FL
Consultant, Copywriter, and Translator
01.2009 - 01.2015
Job overview
- Developed copy and translated content for major U.S
- Clients, delivering tailored messaging to multicultural audiences
- Edited and localized communications for Keynotes, a translation firm, managing accounts for Univision, The White House, People Magazine, and other high-profile organizations
CENTROTampa, The Tampa Tribune
Editor-in-Chief & Founder
01.2005 - 01.2009
Job overview
- Founded and launched The Tampa Tribune’s first Spanish-language publication, including print and online editions
- Recruited and managed editorial staff, driving the publication’s rapid establishment and growth
- Led CENTRO to become an award-winning digital and weekly print platform and a key Hispanic media outlet in the Tampa Bay area
- Adhered to ethical guidelines and standards to promote responsible publication and media practices.
- Oversaw, trained and developed writers and associates, assistants and junior editors to optimize production and quality of work.
- Represented and promoted publication at publisher events, trade shows and conferences.
- Established editorial direction and publication policies and procedures and monitored and maintained functional consistency.
The Wall Street Journal Americas
Managing Editor
01.1998 - 01.2005
Job overview
- Directed editorial operations, overseeing Spanish-language editions across Spain, Latin America, Central America, and the U.S
- Hispanic market
- Grew target audience reach by 10% during tenure by optimizing editorial processes and content quality
- Supervised a multilingual team, including desk chiefs and editorial coordinators
- Enhanced publication quality by implementing rigorous editing and proofreading processes.
- Delegated and tracked each staff member's assignments and deadlines.
- Worked with graphic artists, post-production team members and other specialists to produce captivating and successful content.
- Managed a diverse team of writers, editors, and designers to produce high-quality content consistently.
- Oversaw publication of digital and print products, aligning multi-media content strategies to maintain cohesive brand identity.
The Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald
Business Editor
01.1987 - 01.1998
Job overview
- Advanced from copy editor to Business Editor, overseeing comprehensive coverage of local and international business news
- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders in the business community through events, conferences, and meetings
- Managed translation teams and served as assistant city editor, Latin American page editor, and front-page editor
- Contributed to the features and op-ed sections with original articles and commentary
- Boosted readership levels by consistently selecting engaging topics relevant to the target audience.
- Oversaw fact-checking efforts to ensure accuracy in published articles; maintaining credibility among readership base.
- Participated in industry conferences, panels, or events as a representative of the publication; enhancing brand visibility.
- Edited and revised wide array of content for accuracy, clarity and consistency.
- Collaborated with writers, designers and other editors to deliver content of highest quality.
The Voice of America, Radio Martí Program (US Information Agency)
Senior Editor
01.1984 - 01.1987
Job overview
- Led a team of reporters, writers, and translators to produce high-impact news content for international audiences
- Conducted live interviews, hosted news analysis programs, and wrote scripts for regular features
- Played a pivotal role in launching and shaping Radio Martí’s programming
- Collaborated with writers to refine content, ensuring clarity and adherence to style guidelines.
- Guided and motivated staff to achieve demanding targets under tight deadlines.
- Prepared, rewrote, and edited pieces to improve readability and impact.
- Developed and maintained editorial standards for content.
Columnist
Job overview
- Wrote the humor column Cuando Llegué based on immigrant experiences, published in Tu Dinero (Televisa International) and CENTRO Tampa
Foreign Affairs en Español
Editorial Consultant
01.2000 - 01.2003
Job overview
- Company Overview: A Spanish-language edition of the foreign policy quarterly
- A Spanish-language edition of the foreign policy quarterly
Education
University of Havana
Bachelor’s Degree from Journalism
Skills
Fluent in English
Fluent in Spanish
Working knowledge of French
Working knowledge of Italian
Expert in Microsoft Word
Expert in Outlook
Expert in Skype
Familiar with PowerPoint
Familiar with Excel
Familiar with FrontPage
Familiar with Photoshop
Familiar with InDesign
Avid user of immersive VR on line experience Second Life
Content strategy
Fact-checking proficiency
Deadline adherence
Creative writing
Timeline
Contract Translator
Billboard (Spanish Edition) & National Multiple Sclerosis Society
01.2015 - Current
Consultant, Copywriter, and Translator
Hispania (Miami-based Multicultural PR Firm)
01.2009 - 01.2015
Editor-in-Chief & Founder
CENTROTampa, The Tampa Tribune
01.2005 - 01.2009
Editorial Consultant
Foreign Affairs en Español
01.2000 - 01.2003
Managing Editor
The Wall Street Journal Americas
01.1998 - 01.2005
Business Editor
The Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald
01.1987 - 01.1998
Senior Editor
The Voice of America, Radio Martí Program (US Information Agency)
01.1984 - 01.1987
Columnist
University of Havana
Bachelor’s Degree from Journalism