Mark Garner

With emerging and maturing SVOD, OTT and TV Everywhere services providing new opportunities for content distribution and discovery, Garner ensures A+E Networks takes a forward view in regard to all of its content and brands. Top of mind for the busy exec is ensuring the company maintains control of IP rights in a way that gives it flexibility as it launches new products and partnerships. He recently facilitated several landmark distribution deals for “Roots” and Lifetime’s “UnReal,” and took home an A+E Networks “Create Great” award presented by chief Nancy Dubuc. “The shows that best embrace diversity and inclusion are those which don’t need to shout how diverse they are,” he says. “Every network should have a Shonda Rhimes.”

What grade do you give the cable industry on diversity and why?
Giving the industry a grade is tough.  There has certainly been progress in many areas (e.g. greater inclusion on-screen) while in others there has been virtually none (e.g. C-Level Executives and Board of Directors representation).  We are certainly miles ahead of most industries.

The technology that will most benefit cable over the next year is…
Continuing to build the strength of mobile broadband infrastructure and wifi will most benefit the industry in the coming year.  The number of consumer and commercial devices and the demands of their users put a premium on network excellence.

What television show/s – cable or broadcast – best embrace diversity?
The shows that best embrace diversity and inclusion are those which don’t need to shout how diverse they are.  Every network should have a Shonda Rhimes.