Kasia Kieli

Kieli is breaking ground throughout Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa by creating new content, including the launch of Discovery Turbo Xtra, aimed at adrenaline junkies, and ID Xtra, a spin-off of Investigation Discovery. Discovery’s acquisition of Eurosport will keep her busy in Eastern Europe as she continues to lead the way on “the incredible expansion of the TV Everywhere phenomenon in the region I oversee,” she says.

What’s the biggest story in cable this year?

The incredible expansion of the TV Everywhere phenomenon in the region I oversee is without a doubt the biggest thing at the moment. Technological convergence is happening before our eyes and, surprisingly, markets that were previously considered less advanced, such as Turkey, South Africa and some Middle Eastern markets, have managed to leap forward and are now at the forefront of these new technologies, reshaping the way we consume content.

 What’s a successful career?

A successful career is about taking yourself on a journey that never ends. You push yourself further every year, you set bigger and better goals and you stay true to yourself every step of the way. The journey is not easy but if you always strive to do things the best way you can, it’s certainly a fulfilling one.

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?

Live in the present. When I’m at work I focus on the business, when I’m at home I try to be 100% focused on my family. It doesn’t always work, of course, but it’s worth making an effort.