Michael George
Title: President/CEO, QVC
Age: 47
Education: Northwestern U, BA; Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Northwestern U, Finance

Why Him? It’s not easy to be at the helm of a mammoth multimedia retailer as the country is plunging into economic despair. But former Dell exec George acted fast this fall, applying tourniquets such as the closing of call centers and instilling a work-from-home incentive plan that he hopes will help slice ’09 operating costs by $30-$40mln. QVC experienced a slowdown in growth in ’07, when revenue rose only 5% to $7.4bln vs ’06, compared to a 12%-plus average annual growth for the five previous years. George is banking on bringing more brand-name wares to the network and focusing on the reality trend with shows like makeover series Room for Improvement.

Bummer: Having to announce in November plans for laying off 900 employees

Year Ahead:
There’s no denying erstwhile zealous shoppers are going to be financially hamstrung in ’09.

Favorite Food: Fried chicken

Favorite Restaurant: Minella’s Diner

Drink of Choice: Chocolate shake

Favorite Music: Country

Favorite Show Not on My Network: Mad Men

Last Book Read: Lincoln’s Sword

Best Business Advice Received: Time is the enemy

Trait I Most Admire: Passion

Sports Team: Philadelphia Phillies

Hero: Lincoln

CO

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