Recent times have seen great flux in terms of longtime network chiefs exiting their positions but at NBCU, Hammer remains a stable, continually forward-leaning leader at the company’s venerable Cable Entertainment division. Hammer recently renewed her contract in a deal that will keep her in her position into her early 70s, which would make her the longest-reigning and perhaps most powerful female television exec in the industry’s history. Hammer leads the largest revenue contributor to the company, one that recently grew in both profit and revenue for the 14th consecutive year. She oversees nearly 1,500 employees, and more than 100 million viewers tune into the networks under her purview on any given week. Much of Hammer’s success comes from NBCU nets, including USA and E!, owning the content they broadcast. What’s keeping her on her toes these days? “Our new frenemies Netflix, Hulu, Amazon and other streamers, who are both competitors and major customers for content,” Hammer says. “Sometimes you love ‘em, sometimes you hate ‘em… but you can’t ignore ‘em.” Her many accolades include being acknowledged by The Alliance for Children’s Rights and Advocates for Children’s Rights of NY. When it comes to a woman she admires, Hammer cites Lady Gaga. “Throughout her impressive career, she’s made it a priority to give back with her Born This Way Foundation,” Hammer says.

Who is an inspirational woman you admire, and why?
Right this minute, it’s Lady Gaga, who’s reinvented herself yet again… this time as a full-fledged movie star. And throughout her impressive career, she’s made it a priority to give back with her Born This Way Foundation.

What’s been the most dramatic change in your sector of the business today vs. three years ago?
Our new frenemies Netflix, Hulu, Amazon and other streamers, who are both competitors and major customers for content. Sometimes you love ‘em, sometimes you hate ‘em… but you can’t ignore ‘em.

Honored For: