BURBANK, CA - Industry veteran Doug Kent has joined Westwind Media (www.wwm.tv) as partner and president. The studio, which specializes in sound design and audio post production, also welcomes re-recording mixers Joe Earle, CAS, and Gabriel J. Serrano, CAS, to its talent roster.
“This is a remarkable opportunity to shape a lasting legacy in the industry,” says Kent. “It’s also an opportunity to foster a business that reflects the expansive culture of Los Angeles, one that better represents the city I live in and grew up in. A person can always affect change, but I’m excited to contribute to and influence the future of our company from this leadership position.”
Kent spent 15-years at Technicolor, and most recently served as senior vice president of Formosa Group.
“This facility is a home for creatives," he says of Westwind Media. "Westwind is a boutique studio, which enhances our ability to connect with our clients and support our talent.”
Joining Kent at Westwind is the sound mixing team of Joe Earle and Gabriel Serrano. Earle was the 2024 recipient of the CAS Career Achievement Award and has also won four Emmy Awards, the most recent for American Crime Story and Glee. His numerous credits include Six Feet Under, Dexter, Meet Joe Black and Reservation Dogs. Before joining Westwind, Earle worked at Formosa Group, Technicolor, Soundelux Vine Street and Todd A-O/Glenn.
Serrano joins the Westwind team following a successful stint at Formosa Group. After receiving an MFA in Film Production from the University of Southern California, Serrano began working as a sound engineer and mix technician, then advanced his career to become a re-recording mixer. His credits include John Wick: Chapter 2, Fire Country, Reservation Dogs, Snowfall and Expendables 1, 2 and 3.
In related news, Christian Minkler formally joined the team under the leadership of founding partner John Bidasio following work on several projects at Westwind. Some of his recent work includes Bridgerton, Big Sky and The White Lotus. Nicole Zabala was also appointed vice president of strategy and business development. She brings extensive experience to the company, including tenures with both Technicolor and Formosa Group.