Dee Forbes

Forbes’ mantra is “stronger, bigger, better,” which embodies the victories she has seen in Western Europe to build scale, grow flagship channels and strengthen the business. In 2013, Discovery Networks garnered a 48 percent increase in audience share, and is breaking records again in 2014. Aiding in the growth was the acquisition of Switchover Media in Italy. In her down time, Forbes returns to her native Ireland to “catch up on my favorite sport, rugby, and support my local team, Munster.”

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

BskyB’s plan to buy Sky Deutschland and Sky Italia from 21st Century Fox.

How do you define a successful career?

A successful career is one where you not only grow yourself but one where you empower the people you work with so that they can develop too. My relationship with the teams across Discovery Networks Western Europe is critical to my success as a leader – it is that collaboration that allows us to build scale year after year.

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

I grew up in West Cork, Ireland, and regularly return there at weekends – it’s where my family and many of my friends live and helps me re-charge. It also gives me a chance to catch up on my favorite sport, rugby, and support my local team, Munster.