Cori Abraham
By | November 1, 2013
SVP, Development and International
Oxygen Media
Always on the hunt for a new content idea, Abraham has overseen more than 40 projects at Oxygen during the last year alone. “Although I’ve been a development executive at various cable networks for the past 15 years, I still love hearing a great pitch,” she says. She’s the creative force behind the development of big, network-defining shows including “The Glee Project,” which she developed and exec-produced, and modeling competition “The Face.”
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Although I’ve been a development executive at various cable networks for the past 15 years, I still love hearing a great pitch. As expected, many ideas are repetitive and unoriginal, but I am still inspired by new concepts, unique points of view, extraordinary stories, and compelling characters.
Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?
The key for balance (if there is such a thing) is to be 100% present at work and at home. If my phone is within reach when spending time with my family, I constantly check it and respond to emails immediately. However, if I place the device in another room for periods of time, I am much more relaxed connected, and focused.
What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?
The biggest story in cable would be binge viewing. This past summer my husband and I watched the entire series—all five seasons—of “Breaking Bad,” then didn’t have to wait to watch the incredibly satisfying series finale. Binge viewing in general has changed the way the world watches cable and television in general.
Who would you want to switch jobs with for a month?
If I could change jobs with someone for a month it would be one of the following three…1) Kerry Washington, just because 2) The guy who sits in my local Starbucks and writes everyday…. You know… That guy 3) Pink. She’s super talented, has longevity, no nonsense, not afraid to be herself, a complete rock star and a mom at the same time, and has a great sense of humor about herself.