Steve Koonin

Title: President, Turner Entertainment Networks
Years in Cable: 11
Education: U. of Georgia

Why Him? Koonin commandeers a diverse portfolio of some of the biggest and best-known cable properties. TNT’s launch of the summer’s No. 1 new hit “Falling Skies” was global via an alliance with Turner Broadcasting System International. Koonin also gets a share of credit for signing Conan O’Brien to TBS for late nights in late 2010; while record-setting truTV continues to grow its fan base as a top 10 cabler in primetime men 18-49. Koonin also worked with Turner Sports and CBS in bringing the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship to TNT, TBS and truTV.

Getting The Message Out: Demonstrating commitment to TV Everywhere, Turner launched an ad campaign on TNT and TBS in September, utilizing network celebs like Conan O’Brien to explain how it works.

Year Ahead: Koonin is hot for TV Everywhere, and will continue introducing it to TNT, TBS, truTV and TCM viewers. He is also a savvy player in building audience via social media and will continue to oversee growth on the four networks, including new additions in unscripted programming for TNT and TBS. ?