Arlene Manos

President, National Advertising Sales, AMC Networks

Manos is stepping down at the end of the year, and transitioning to president emeritus. She is the embodiment of the advice she would give her 13-year-old self: “If you can visualize it, you can make it so.” One of cable’s most influential advertising leaders, she continually redefines and expands AMC Networks’ advertising and sponsorship opportunities across linear, digital and other new media platforms. The proof is in the results. Despite unprecedented fragmentation and competition, the company has consistently experienced strong ad growth for its original programming, with flagship network AMC commanding some of the highest ad prices on TV for series including “The Walking Dead.” She innovates internally as well, spearheading a reorg of the sales team this year.

Which sector of the cable industry best demonstrates gender equality and which could use some enlightenment?

Sales and marketing has a good representation of gender. Could use some enlightenment: Pricing and Inventory, as well as finance.

What advice would you give your 13-year-old self?

If you can visualize it, you can make it so.

Which current programming best reflects the kind of women’s roles you like to see and why?

“Blackish” with Tracee Ellis Ross, hitting the touchpoints of diversity, family issues and professional issues. Tatiana Maslany in BBC America’s s “Orphan Black” – thinks on her feet as the character, and is an amazing actress managing character adaptation.

What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?

Once again, cross-platform measurement, or the lack of clarity in that area.