December 1, 2008

CableFAX: 5. Pet Rock: Phil Kent

Phil Kent
Title: Chairman/CEO, Turner Broadcasting System
Last Year: #16
Age: Final year in CNN’s primary demo
Education: Lehigh U, BA, Economics

Why Him? Amid a turbulent economy that has sent advertisers into hibernation, Turner has continued to post growth and remains Time Warner’s pet property. Bolstered by original series and sports, Turner posted a 9% increase in ad revenue in 3Q. It expects add growth in 4Q as other programmers prepare to struggle. Sub and affiliate growth continue too.

Proud Moment: Time Warner pres/CEO Jeff Bewkes repeatedly lauding Turner’s success.

Year Ahead:
Slowing growth is still growth.

Favorite Food: Italian

Drink of Choice: Red wine

Favorite Music: Anything by Stevie Wonder

Fave Show Not on My Network: CBS Sunday Morning

In ’09 I Resolve To: Successfully manage Turner through a turbulent economic environment

Favorite Part of My Job: Strategizing and problem solving with my colleagues

Worst Part of My Job: Lobbying and litigation

Best Business Advice Received: Never take a job that doesn’t make you want to jump out of the bed in the morning! (Donald Keough, former Coca-Cola CEO)

Philosophy Of Life: God hates a coward....

Favorite Words: Thank you

Trait I Most Admire in People: Compassion

Favorite Teams: Atlanta Braves & Hawks, NY Yankees

CH

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