The SER dismisses Javier Ruiz at the start of the new season after taking over the direction of La Séptima

Javier Ruiz has reached an agreement with Cadena SER to dissolve his contract following his controversial exit from the network, according to a joint statement released by both parties. The move comes after Ruiz left the network amid speculation over ideological differences and restructuring efforts within the media group. Ruiz had previously led Hora 25 de los Negocios, a popular economic program on Cadena SER, before accepting a position as editor-in-chief of La Séptima, a new television channel launching on November 5. The termination of Ruiz’s contract was described by Cadena SER as a mutual decision, though the circumstances surrounding it remain contentious. Sources close to the situation suggest that Ruiz's departure was influenced by ideological factors, particularly given his progressive stance. This aligns with recent exits of other figures associated with more left-leaning positions, including Àngels Barceló, former head of Hoy por hoy, and Guillermo Rodríguez, ex-director of informatives. These individuals reportedly faced pressure from management changes linked to the Amber fund, which holds a controlling stake in Prisa, the parent company of Cadena SER. Ruiz's exit follows a broader reshuffling of personnel at Cadena SER. In May, Barceló announced her resignation from Hoy por hoy after months of tensions with Fran Llorente, the content director appointed by Joseph Oughourlian, president of the Amber fund. Barceló cited lack of support from Oughourlian as a key factor behind her decision. Her final broadcast included a reference to shifting political dynamics, stating she represented the left wing of the station and that the right wing would now take its place. Following Barceló’s departure, Aimar Bretos took over as host of Hoy por hoy, while José Luis Sastre assumed leadership of Hora 25 de los Negocios. Both began their new roles on the same day as Ruiz’s sudden exit was confirmed. The restructuring appears to reflect a strategic shift aimed at balancing perspectives within the network, according to internal discussions. Ruiz had been with Cadena SER for over three decades, beginning in 1995 as a journalist for the network’s news services. He later became a co-host of Hoy por hoy alongside Iñaki Gabilondo and served as a correspondent in New York. By 2008, he was leading Hora 25 de los Negocios, a role he held until recently. His tenure at the network spanned multiple roles, including chief editor of news services and eventually editor-in-chief of La Séptima. Cadena SER issued a statement expressing gratitude for Ruiz’s contributions, highlighting his work in making economic information accessible to listeners. Jaume Serra, director general of Radio and Audiovisual Business at Prisa Media, praised Ruiz’s efforts during his time at the network. However, neither Cadena SER nor Prisa responded to requests for comment on the specific reasons behind Ruiz’s departure. Sources indicate that the decision to terminate Ruiz’s contract was not solely based on professional considerations. Internal discussions suggest that the network sought to realign its programming to reflect a more moderate ideological stance, distancing itself from perceived leftist influences. This approach contrasts with previous denials by Cadena SER regarding any shift toward conservative viewpoints, with the network attributing personnel changes to a desire for greater diversity in opinions. The dissolution of Ruiz’s contract marks a significant transition for both him and Cadena SER. While Ruiz expressed his enduring affection for the network in a public message, the future direction of Cadena SER remains uncertain. With new leadership in place and a new television channel set to launch, the network faces challenges in maintaining its audience while adapting to evolving media landscapes.