Joe Abruzzese

Years in Cable: 30+ years

Education: bachelor’s degree in marketing and finance, Seton Hall University

One Word that Best Describes Me: Affable

Under Abruzzese’s legendary leadership, his sales team made 2015 another banner year. A solid upfront and several consecutive quarters of strong scatter outpaced most competitors. Considered old-school by some, Abruzzese hasn’t forsaken his deal-winning ways, but he has adapted to the digital age in order to give advertisers what they want. No wonder he remains a favorite of both clients and agencies and is one of the most respected sales leaders in the media industry.

The biggest innovation in cable over the last year: The quality of good programming available.

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

My first job: My first job was selling shirt fabric.

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