Mel Berning & David Zagin

Mel Berning

Title: President & Chief Revenue Officer, A+E Networks

Years in Cable: 13

Education: BA, UVA; MBA and Master
Journalism, Columbia

One Word that Best Describes Me: Dogged

David Zagin

Title: President, Distribution, A+E Networks

Years in Cable: 29

Education: Syracuse University

One Word that Best
Describes Me: Motivated

In an era of new distribution models, Zagin and Berning are powering ahead, leading A+E Nets to new growth and distribution and revenue avenues. Zagin oversaw the successful swap of H2 to Viceland and negotiated key long-term deals, including a multiplatform deal with AT&T and with Hulu for exclusive SVOD rights to Lifetime drama “UnREAL.” Berning is guiding the company’s embrace of programmatic monetization strategies in digital media at full scale, while stepping up sales across networks including FYI, which added 150 new buyers.

Mel Berning

The biggest innovation in cable over the last year: VOD4+ Dynamic ad-insertion capabilities. It’s unlocking the value of the on-demand environment for programmers, operators and advertisers.

Last show I watched not on my network(s): “The Affair” on Showtime. Lots of bad guys on it, and that holds me over until “Ray Donovan” comes back on.

Favorite charity you work with: Habitat for Humanity. It deals in real tangible benefits—better housing for people in need.

If this election year was a reality TV series, it would be called… “Demolition Derby”

What should cable do to improve its image? Cable has far and away the best video brands and content. And the bundle presents tremendous value compared to unbundling. Cable needs to get credit for its value proposition.

I watch the majority of programming on this device: 78” HDTV monitor

David Zagin

Virtual reality is… going to have a long road ahead of it, just like 3D. Just not sure if consumers are prepared to wear a headset while watching TV. Great viewing experience, but the “headset” is a bit uncomfortable.

Last show I watched not on my network(s): “Billions” on Showtime

Best way to spend a Saturday night: At local casual restaurants with friends, and whenever the family is together, which isn’t that often because we are empty nesters.

My cable industry mentor and why: Bob Miron, he introduced me to the industry many years ago and I am forever grateful.

I watch the majority of programming on this device:  TV is still my preference

Favorite vacation spot: Any warm weather destination with my family, last year’s favorite place was Cabo, not sure where we will be this year.

My typical breakfast is: Very simple—granola/yogurt, English muffin, OJ, coffee