CableFAX: 65. Movin' On Up: Phil Griffin

Phil Griffin

Title: Pres, MSNBC
Age: 18-54
Education: BA, Vassar
Social Media Quotient: 8

Why Him? MSNBC’s steady rise this year can be summed up in a word: silver. Owing to Griffin’s guidance, that’s the medal color it enjoys among cable news nets after eclipsing CNN in HH prime ratings for Oct. The net also notched profit growth in 1Q and 2Q. Its Website in June set a record of 153mln video streams, a 14% increase over the previous monthly best, which was set in Oct ’08 during the lead up to the presidential election.

Don’t Lose It: News junkies will want to see whether MSNBC can maintain its new podium position going forward.

The Year Ahead:

MSNBC must underscore compelling personalities and programming to drive success during times of "light" news. That’s not easy, especially with the cut-throat competition inherent to the genre.

Favorite Food: My wife’s tuna tartar

Drink of Choice: Vodka Martini

Cable Prediction in ‘10: MSNBC has its best year ever.

When I Need to Recharge, I…: Throw a baseball with my son Jackson.

Last Book Read: South of Broad by Pat Conroy

Trait I Most Admire in People: Passion

Childhood Hero: Muhammad Ali

I Wish My Kids Would…: Want to hang out with me forever.

Favorite TV Show Not on MSNBC: Friday Night Lights

Favorite Part of My Job: My team

Best Business Advice: Have fun.