December 1, 2008

CableFAX: 24. Shake and Bake: Bridget Baker

Bridget Baker
Title: President, TV Networks Distribution, NBC Universal
Last Year: #17
Age: -less
Education: On the job

Why Her? Is there anyone who doesn’t like Baker? But she’s in the 100 because she remains one of the most effective programming advocates, constantly pitching to affiliates, who can be a skeptical and even grouchy bunch. No one stays in a bad mood around her. Most recently, she oversaw distribution of the Beijing Olympic Games, and she just inked multi-year, omnibus deals with DirecTV, Charter, Cox, Mediacom and AT&T. All this, and she’s still a dedicated knitter!

Proud Moments: In May, Baker led a volunteer effort to revitalize Project Lazarus and Kent House in New Orleans in conjunction with Cable Positive at the ’08 Cable Show. She was also the sole female inducted into the prestigious Cable TV Pioneers.

Year Ahead:
The increasing importance of steady cable license fee income makes Baker a key asset in a tough economy.

Unnecessary luxury I like most: Car + Driver.

Fave Show Not on NBC: The Closer

Last Book Read: Mason-Dixon Knitting Outside the Lines by Kay Gardiner

Favorite Part of My Job Is: The people 

Best Business Advice Received: Lead, follow, or get out of the way. (Ted Turner)

I Wish My Kids Would: Fit in my suitcase

The Trait You Most Admire in People: Initiative

Favorite Sports Team: Oakwood Gorillas 6th grade flag football team

Hero: My husband

MG

Return to the CableFAX 100 table of contents.