December 12, 2007

Proving Grounds

Name: Bill Nelson
Title: Chairman/CEO, HBO

Name: Andrea Wong
Title: President/CEO, Lifetime Networks
Age: 41
Years in Industry: “6 months!”
Years left in Industry: “As long as they’ll have me!”

Why Them? Grace under pressure is a fitting way to describe the way in which each of these executives have segued into the top spots at two major cable networks. Nelson, whose background in business and finance is a U turn from predecessor Chris Albrecht’s programming prowess, moved up at a time when HBO was bidding adieu to top ratings earner “The Sopranos.” But that loss, and a rough patch with the failed “John From Cincinnati,” have not stifled Nelson’s commitment to maintaining HBO’s powerhouse status with new shows like Gabriel Byrne-starring “Treatment” and wickedly funny “12 Miles of Bad Road.” As for Wong, her business savvy and keen ability to spot very current programming trends make her a living, breathing billboard for Lifetime’s “we’re not your mother’s network anymore” mantra. Less than a year on the job, she has helped resurrect a buzz around the network. With new shows like hit series “Army Wives” creating a nice base, Wong also has big plans for multiplatform crossovers beginning with the redesign of Lifetime’s web site.  CAO

Andrea Wong
Top personal achievement in 2007: “Getting my dream job here at Lifetime and having the opportunity to build on an incredible brand and oversee the growth of the top two networks for women.”
In my free time, I like to: “Hang out with the people I love, including my nieces and nephews, read, go to the movies and, of course, watch Lifetime.”
Favorite restaurant: “Katsuya in Studio City”
Favorite city: “Roma”
My perfect vacation goes like this: “Biking through the Loire Valley with my boyfriend, enjoying the exercise, the fresh air and especially the breaks for great wine and my favorite truffled brie from Cannes.”
The world would be a better place if: “We could all try and be a little nicer to one another.”


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