Westwind Media expands leadership and talent roster

A new era for Westwind Media

Westwind Media, a renowned sound design and audio postproduction company based in Burbank, is stepping into a new chapter. Known for its work on popular series like Queen Charlotte and The White Lotus, the company is expanding its leadership team and talent roster to further solidify its position in the industry.

Doug Kent takes the helm

Industry veteran Doug Kent has been appointed as the new partner and president of Westwind Media. With a career spanning over two decades, Kent brings a wealth of experience to the table. He previously served as a senior VP at Formosa Group and spent 15 years at Technicolor in a similar role. Kent’s vision for Westwind Media is clear: “This is a remarkable opportunity to shape a lasting legacy in the industry. 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.”

New talent joins the team

Westwind Media has also expanded its talent roster with the addition of re-recording mixers Joe Earle and Gabriel J. Serrano. Earle, a four-time Emmy Award winner, is the 2024 recipient of the Cinema Audio Society Career Achievement Award. His impressive resume includes work on American Crime Story and Glee. Earle expressed his excitement about reuniting with Kent: “Doug and I started out in the business together, we’ve worked with each other on and off over the years, and I’m glad we get to do it again.”

Serrano, whose credits include John Wick: Chapter 2, Fire Country, Reservation Dogs, and Snowfall, also joins the team from Formosa Group. His diverse portfolio adds a new dimension to Westwind Media’s capabilities.

Christian P. Minkler and Nicole Zabala join the ranks

Christian P. Minkler, who has worked on several projects at Westwind Media, has formally joined the team. His recent projects include Bridgerton and The White Lotus. Minkler’s work on Once Upon a Time in Hollywood earned him an Oscar nomination, showcasing his exceptional talent.

Nicole Zabala has been appointed as the VP of strategy and business development. With a background that includes stints at Technicolor and Formosa Group, Zabala brings a strategic mindset to Westwind Media. Her role will be crucial in driving the company’s growth and expanding its client base.

A home for creatives

Kent envisions Westwind Media as a “home for creatives” and a “boutique studio which enhances our ability to connect with our clients and support our talent.” This philosophy is at the core of the company’s expansion strategy. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, Westwind Media aims to attract top talent and deliver exceptional results for its clients.

The future of Westwind Media

With its expanded leadership team and talent roster, Westwind Media is poised for a bright future. The company’s commitment to excellence and innovation in sound design and audio postproduction sets it apart in the industry. As Kent and his team continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, Westwind Media is set to leave a lasting impact on the world of cinema and television.

For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, the work of Westwind Media is a testament to the power of sound in storytelling. The company’s projects, from Queen Charlotte to The White Lotus, showcase the transformative effect of high-quality audio on the viewing experience. As Westwind Media continues to innovate and expand, audiences can look forward to even more immersive and captivating soundscapes in their favorite films and series.