Jen Neal

EVP, Marketing, E! Entertainment & Esquire Network

Neal leads all marketing initiatives –including advertising, media strategies, creative, brand alliances and promotion—across all platforms for E! and Esquire. It was Neal who led the marketing campaign for Caitlyn Jenner doc series “I Am Cait,” which premiered to a total audience of 6.2 million viewers. She was also behind the marketing for E!’s first original scripted series, “The Royals.” For Esquire Network, Neal is expanding viewership with spinoff series “Team Ninja Warrior,” which earned the honor of most-watch series premiere with A18-49 in the network’s history and most-watched original with total viewers. The biggest story in cable this year from a marketing perspective has been “ensuring you have the right mix and volume of content to engage with your audience 24/7,” she says.

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

Stay curious and don’t shy away from tough projects or situations. That’s where you often learn the most. Also, work hard and remember that optimism and positivity are contagious.

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

As a former athlete I can relate to the powerful women on E!’s “Total Divas” because they truly represent women’s empowerment.

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

From a marketing perspective, it’s ensuring you have the right mix and volume of content to engage with your audience 24/7.