Barbara Zaneri

In January, Zaneri and David Bernath took on the role of leading Viacom’s program acquisitions group. She’s responsible for leading all domestic acquisitions within Viacom Media Networks and always looking for that next big thing that will resonate with the programmer’s younger-skewing audience. Where is she when not in the office? “Dancing—and helping others. Two things that bring me joy. And if I can do them both at the same time—even better!,” she says.

How can cable do better job at supporting the industry’s women?

There are many high profile women in cable—possibly because this industry allows women the opportunity to show how strong, creative and capable we can be in all areas of business.

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

One of the most recent ones was Turner’s $400M write-down of product that showcased a level-setting correction of the marketplace.

How do you define a successful career?

I define success through my own filter.  If I’m happy with what I have, how I’m doing, and how my life is working, I don’t look over anybody else’s shoulder. A successful career to me is one where I’m making a difference—for myself and for my company.

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?

I keep my home life separate from my work life because when my work life goes away, I don’t want to wish I had put more time into the other one!

When not in the office, where are we most likely to find you?

Dancing—and helping others. Two things that bring me joy.  And if I can do them both at the same time—even better!