December 1, 2008

CableFAX: 45. Quiet Class: Bill Bresnan

Bill Bresnan
Title: Chariman/CEO, Bresnan Communications
Last Year: #64
Age: 75
Education: South Central Technical College, Radio Repairman, TV Serviceman Program

Why Him? It’s been 50 years since Bresnan, age 25, designed and built his first cable system in Rochester, MN. And the cable business has been the better for his presence. Modest, hard working and charitable, Bresnan sets a classy tone in the office and around the industry. None of this means he doesn’t mean business, of course. But it’s done with quiet confidence and style, as the man at the top exudes both. Ditto for Jeff DeMond, Bresnan’s longtime president, whom Bill constantly urges to take the spotlight. A beacon among the many operators that are taking subscriber hits, Bresnan Communications added 6,400 basic subs in ’07, which put it 63% ahead over the prior year. It’s also gaining impressive numbers for its bundled service. More than 54% take two or more services from the operator and 27% have the triple play.

Year Ahead:
Bresnan looks on track to continue adding subscribers, and is beefing up its Internet business and expanding commercial offerings in ’09.

CO

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