Years in Cable: 31
Education: BA, Political Science, Brown University; JD, Harvard Law School; Master’s, Public Policy, John F. Kennedy School of Government
Change has been the norm at Viacom these days. Although BET was identified by Bob Bakish as one of the conglomerate’s six core brands, the network will be moving forward without its longstanding programming chief Hill, who is departing along with EVP/head of original programming Zola Mashariki. Hill, who’s been at BET since 1999 and known for his unfettered love of music, recently engineered the network’s move into more scripted content, including miniseries “The Book of Negroes” and “Mandiba,” as well as a New Edition Biopic that hit the ratings jackpot. Lee, who thanked Hill for “every awesome and magical moment” he had at BET in her memo to staff, will continue to lead the network into its next era, with a focus on brand-identifying series and tentpole events.
Q&A
What inspires you most about this industry? Reaching people where they are and bringing them joy, information and inspiration. This industry has the power to move the culture forward in so many ways through artistry and storytelling, there is nothing else like it.
The biggest innovation in cable over the last year? Faster, better search for VOD.
The best thing about fast broadband is… Downloading movies. More access, more opportunity.
Three years from now, what do you hope has been invented? Something that gives us more hours in the day.
What are the top three qualities you look for in a hire? Smart, passionate and flexible with a willingness to take on new projects.
How do you celebrate your birthday? Massage & dinner. If it’s a decade celebration, a big party!
What product or service could you not live without? IPhone and Twitter
Favorite Saturday morning cartoon from your childhood? “Jackson 5”
Best way to spend a Saturday night: Dinner and movie
New favorite binge: “Grace and Frankie”
