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25. Universal DiscoveryDavid Zaslav Current Title: President, NBC Universal Cable and Domestic TV and New Media Distribution Future Title: Pres/CEO, Discovery Communications Age: 46 Bridget Baker Title: EVP, NBC Universal Cable Age: 45 Years in Industry: 18 Years left in the industry: “Many. My kids are young.” Why them? David Zaslav may be leaving NBC Universal to take the top job at Discovery Communications early next year, but his legacy is one of excellence. Consider this: NBCU's portfolio of cable networks is so powerful that none of the entertainment nets are expected to feel the impact of NBC’s decision to trim 5% of its workforce over the next few years. Under Zaslav, NBCU was an early adopter of iTunes, sometimes making series premieres available on the Web before their linear debut. He also spearheaded NBCU’s TV windowing strategy as part of the expanded role he took on in May. Next came a slate of broadband channels and VOD offerings, with USA, Bravo and Sci Fi all making their on demand debut within the last year. We should have known he might head over to Discovery, considering his close relationship with John Hendricks (Zaslav filled in for Discovery's then-gen counsel Judith McHale when she was on maternity leave years ago). With Zaslav gone, Bridget Baker's role could become even more important as she negotiates with operators amid all of the swirling changes around NBCU's new media and windowing strategies. But hits like “Monk” and “Project Runway” (not to mention a new baby) usually have her smiling and successful. Look at that NBC Olympics deal she did with cable through 2008. Might she be a candidate for Zaslav's job? We hope she's at least on the short list. - AM David Zaslav Defining career moment: “A meeting with John Hendricks in 1985 and hearing his passion for the cable channel he wanted to create and grow.” Person I most admire in the cable industry and why: “Tom Freston, because the cable industry was always seen as a younger brother and when Tom took over Viacom, it was the defining moment when it was clear that the cable leaders were the winners.” Biggest cable surprise of 2006: “‘Project Runway’ on Bravo and the huge cultural impact it has had over past year in America.” Top personal achievement in 2006: “Going to Venice, Italy with my whole family and getting everyone to dress in 18th Century garb for a masked costume ball.” Favorite movie: “'Searching for Bobby Fischer,' because it reminds me that what's most important is your family and being the best person you can be.” Bridget Baker What is your favorite word? Serendipity. What is your least favorite word? No. What turns you on? Courage. What turns you off? Pretense. What sound do you love? Laughter. What sound do you hate? The sound of discrimination. What profession other than yours would you like to attempt? TV journalist. What profession would you not like to participate in? Accountant. If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? “We’ve been waiting for you!” Click here to return to the 2006 CFAX 100 List |
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