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
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
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