• Amy Reisenbach

    President, CBS Entertainment

    Full Bio
  • Bryon Rubin

    Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, CBS

    August 2023

    Bryon Rubin oversees all financial and business operations that support the divisions of CBS. This includes the CBS Television Network (CBS Entertainment, CBS News and Stations, CBS Sports), CBS Studios, CBS Media Ventures and the digital assets related to each of these groups.

    Rubin has spent more than two decades at CBS, serving in various roles, including executive vice president of corporate development, with responsibility for company-wide strategy and mergers and acquisitions. Prior to that, he was chief financial officer of CBS Interactive.

    Before joining CBS, Mr. Rubin worked in investment banking and public accounting. He is a graduate of Lehigh University and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

    August 2023

    Bryon Rubin oversees all financial and business operations that support the divisions of CBS. This includes the CBS Television Network (CBS Entertainment, CBS News and Stations, CBS Sports), CBS Studios, CBS Media Ventures and the digital assets related to each of these groups.

    Rubin has spent more than two decades at CBS, serving in various roles, including executive vice president of corporate development, with responsibility for company-wide strategy and mergers and acquisitions. Prior to that, he was chief financial officer of CBS Interactive.

    Before joining CBS, Mr. Rubin worked in investment banking and public accounting. He is a graduate of Lehigh University and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

  • Mike Benson

    President and Chief Marketing Officer, CBS

    November 2023

    Mike Benson is president and chief marketing officer of CBS, a role he assumed in September 2019.

    Benson is responsible for all CBS marketing activities, including brand, advertising, promotion, creative, social media, digital and experiential marketing across CBS Entertainment, CBS Sports, CBS News and Stations, CBS Media Ventures, CBS Studios, See It Now Studios, Paramount Television Studios and BET Studios. He works closely with teams across Paramount Global to coordinate marketing efforts for CBS-related brands and programming.

    Benson is responsible for articulating a brand vision with innovative marketing strategies that drive growth and engagement across the CBS family of brands, shows, franchises and distribution platforms. Since his arrival, he and his team have launched new CBS Original hits including THE EQUALIZER, GHOSTS, FIRE COUNTRY and NCIS: SYDNEY, and stimulated growth for numerous CBS legacy programs and franchises including 60 MINUTES, SURVIVOR, CBS MORNINGS, THE PRICE IS RIGHT, NFL ON CBS and “Star Trek.”

    Previously, Benson was head of marketing at Amazon Studios. He led marketing efforts in support of Amazon Original content, exclusively for Prime Video. His work at Amazon was recognized with Adweek’s Brand Genius and Grand Brand Genius Awards, 37 Clio Awards, including two Grand Clios, five Cannes Lion Awards and an Emmy nomination.

    Prior to Amazon, Benson was chief creative officer for the Time Warner Global Media Group. In this role, he executed a wide range of innovative partnerships with brand marketers across the Time Warner corporate portfolio, including HBO, Warner Bros., Time Inc. and Turner Networks.

    Benson also spent over 12 years at the Walt Disney Company as executive vice president of marketing for the ABC Entertainment Group, creating a host of highly recognized marketing campaigns for series including “Modern Family,” “Lost,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “The Bachelor.”

    Benson started his career at CBS, working in various positions at WCCO-TV/Minneapolis, and later serving as director of communications and creative services for KCBS-TV/Los Angeles. He later worked at VH1/MTV Networks, serving as senior vice president of promotion and program planning.

    November 2023

    Mike Benson is president and chief marketing officer of CBS, a role he assumed in September 2019.

    Benson is responsible for all CBS marketing activities, including brand, advertising, promotion, creative, social media, digital and experiential marketing across CBS Entertainment, CBS Sports, CBS News and Stations, CBS Media Ventures, CBS Studios, See It Now Studios, Paramount Television Studios and BET Studios. He works closely with teams across Paramount Global to coordinate marketing efforts for CBS-related brands and programming.

    Benson is responsible for articulating a brand vision with innovative marketing strategies that drive growth and engagement across the CBS family of brands, shows, franchises and distribution platforms. Since his arrival, he and his team have launched new CBS Original hits including THE EQUALIZER, GHOSTS, FIRE COUNTRY and NCIS: SYDNEY, and stimulated growth for numerous CBS legacy programs and franchises including 60 MINUTES, SURVIVOR, CBS MORNINGS, THE PRICE IS RIGHT, NFL ON CBS and “Star Trek.”

    Previously, Benson was head of marketing at Amazon Studios. He led marketing efforts in support of Amazon Original content, exclusively for Prime Video. His work at Amazon was recognized with Adweek’s Brand Genius and Grand Brand Genius Awards, 37 Clio Awards, including two Grand Clios, five Cannes Lion Awards and an Emmy nomination.

    Prior to Amazon, Benson was chief creative officer for the Time Warner Global Media Group. In this role, he executed a wide range of innovative partnerships with brand marketers across the Time Warner corporate portfolio, including HBO, Warner Bros., Time Inc. and Turner Networks.

    Benson also spent over 12 years at the Walt Disney Company as executive vice president of marketing for the ABC Entertainment Group, creating a host of highly recognized marketing campaigns for series including “Modern Family,” “Lost,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “The Bachelor.”

    Benson started his career at CBS, working in various positions at WCCO-TV/Minneapolis, and later serving as director of communications and creative services for KCBS-TV/Los Angeles. He later worked at VH1/MTV Networks, serving as senior vice president of promotion and program planning.

  • Radha Subramanyam

    Chief Research and Analytics Officer, CBS; President, CBS Vision

    September 2023

    Radha Subramanyam serves as chief research and analytics officer at CBS and president of CBS Vision. She joined the Company as executive vice president, chief research and analytics officer at the CBS Television Network in November 2017 and was promoted to her current role after 18 months. Subramanyam oversees all research and analytics operations forCBS, including audience measurement, analytics, market research, content testing and advertising research. She has extensive strategic and operational experience in all areas of the industry, including broadcast, cable, digital and streaming, as well as radio, music and social media.

    Most recently, Subramanyam served as president of research, insights and data analytics for iHeartMedia, where she developed and managed wide-ranging efforts involving digital analytics, ratings and measurement, ad sales research, mobile measurement, programming analysis, music research, campaign measurement and marketing research.

    Prior to joining iHeartMedia, Subramanyam held senior executive research roles at Yahoo!, MTV Networks and Nielsen. Before beginning her career in the media industry, she taught media and entertainment at Vassar College and New York University.

    Subramanyam serves on the board of directors of the Center for Communication, the International Radio & Television Society and the Advertising Research Foundation. She is the recipient of many accolades including being named among the National Women’s Conference’s “Top Women in Business,” the Tri-State Diversity Council’s “Top Women Leaders of New York” and Corinium’s “Top Innovators in Data and Analytics.” In 2023 she was a distinguished recipient of the International Women’s Day Award at the Consulate General of India. She is a sought-after media thought leader and speaker.

    September 2023

    Radha Subramanyam serves as chief research and analytics officer at CBS and president of CBS Vision. She joined the Company as executive vice president, chief research and analytics officer at the CBS Television Network in November 2017 and was promoted to her current role after 18 months. Subramanyam oversees all research and analytics operations forCBS, including audience measurement, analytics, market research, content testing and advertising research. She has extensive strategic and operational experience in all areas of the industry, including broadcast, cable, digital and streaming, as well as radio, music and social media.

    Most recently, Subramanyam served as president of research, insights and data analytics for iHeartMedia, where she developed and managed wide-ranging efforts involving digital analytics, ratings and measurement, ad sales research, mobile measurement, programming analysis, music research, campaign measurement and marketing research.

    Prior to joining iHeartMedia, Subramanyam held senior executive research roles at Yahoo!, MTV Networks and Nielsen. Before beginning her career in the media industry, she taught media and entertainment at Vassar College and New York University.

    Subramanyam serves on the board of directors of the Center for Communication, the International Radio & Television Society and the Advertising Research Foundation. She is the recipient of many accolades including being named among the National Women’s Conference’s “Top Women in Business,” the Tri-State Diversity Council’s “Top Women Leaders of New York” and Corinium’s “Top Innovators in Data and Analytics.” In 2023 she was a distinguished recipient of the International Women’s Day Award at the Consulate General of India. She is a sought-after media thought leader and speaker.

  • Chris Ender

    Executive Vice President, Communications, CBS

    September 2023

    Chris Ender was named executive vice president of communications for CBS in June 2020. He reports to George Cheeks, president and chief executive officer of CBS. In this post, Ender oversees external and internal communications and media relations for all CBS divisions, including Entertainment, News and Stations, Sports and Studios.

    Ender joined CBS in 1996 as vice president of media relations for CBS Entertainment. During his tenure at the company, he has overseen launch campaigns for shows that have built CBS into America’s Most-Watched Network. He has also expanded the CBS Television Network’s public relations operation, created the CBS Studios PR department and helped shape communications strategies for the company’s international television business and for multiple other CBS divisions.

    Before joining CBS, Ender served as vice president of media relations for Sony Pictures Television. Previously, he was an account executive at Bender, Goldman & Helper public relations.

    Ender is a graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in journalism.

     

    September 2023

    Chris Ender was named executive vice president of communications for CBS in June 2020. He reports to George Cheeks, president and chief executive officer of CBS. In this post, Ender oversees external and internal communications and media relations for all CBS divisions, including Entertainment, News and Stations, Sports and Studios.

    Ender joined CBS in 1996 as vice president of media relations for CBS Entertainment. During his tenure at the company, he has overseen launch campaigns for shows that have built CBS into America’s Most-Watched Network. He has also expanded the CBS Television Network’s public relations operation, created the CBS Studios PR department and helped shape communications strategies for the company’s international television business and for multiple other CBS divisions.

    Before joining CBS, Ender served as vice president of media relations for Sony Pictures Television. Previously, he was an account executive at Bender, Goldman & Helper public relations.

    Ender is a graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in journalism.

     

  • Yelena Chak

    Executive Vice President, Drama Series Development, CBS Entertainment

    January 2021

    Yelena Chak was named head of drama development for CBS Entertainment in September 2017. In her position, Chak oversees development for the Network’s new drama series. She reports to Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment.

    Chak joined CBS Entertainment in 2007 as Director, Drama Series, and was named Vice President in 2009, Senior Vice President in 2016 and Executive Vice President in 2019. During her time at the Network, she has been involved in the development of the FBI franchise, the NCIS franchise, EVIL, ALL RISE, BULL, MAGNUM P.I., MACGYVER, GOD FRIENDED ME, SEAL TEAM, S.W.A.T., INSTINCT, BULL, “Zoo,” BLUE BLOODS, MADAM SECRETARY“Madam Secretary,” “Salvation,” “Scorpion,” “Under the Dome,” ELEMENTARY“Elementary,” “Person of Interest,” HAWAII FIVE-0,“Hawaii 5Five-0 BLUE BLOODS,” “The Good Wife,” and “The Mentalist,,” as well as the Network’s new fall dramas, ALL RISECLARICE and THE EVILEQUALIZER.

    Before joining CBS, Chak worked in drama development at Jerry Bruckheimer Television, where she oversaw such series as “Without a Trace,” “Cold Case” and the “CSI” franchise. Previously, she worked at NBC, where she participated in the network’s Associate Program, which led to a position in comedy development. Chak began her Hollywood career in the mailroom at UTA, where she was quickly promoted to agent trainee in the TV literary department.

    Chak is a graduate of Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science in economics. She also holds a Master of Business Administration from Stanford University.

    January 2021

    Yelena Chak was named head of drama development for CBS Entertainment in September 2017. In her position, Chak oversees development for the Network’s new drama series. She reports to Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment.

    Chak joined CBS Entertainment in 2007 as Director, Drama Series, and was named Vice President in 2009, Senior Vice President in 2016 and Executive Vice President in 2019. During her time at the Network, she has been involved in the development of the FBI franchise, the NCIS franchise, EVIL, ALL RISE, BULL, MAGNUM P.I., MACGYVER, GOD FRIENDED ME, SEAL TEAM, S.W.A.T., INSTINCT, BULL, “Zoo,” BLUE BLOODS, MADAM SECRETARY“Madam Secretary,” “Salvation,” “Scorpion,” “Under the Dome,” ELEMENTARY“Elementary,” “Person of Interest,” HAWAII FIVE-0,“Hawaii 5Five-0 BLUE BLOODS,” “The Good Wife,” and “The Mentalist,,” as well as the Network’s new fall dramas, ALL RISECLARICE and THE EVILEQUALIZER.

    Before joining CBS, Chak worked in drama development at Jerry Bruckheimer Television, where she oversaw such series as “Without a Trace,” “Cold Case” and the “CSI” franchise. Previously, she worked at NBC, where she participated in the network’s Associate Program, which led to a position in comedy development. Chak began her Hollywood career in the mailroom at UTA, where she was quickly promoted to agent trainee in the TV literary department.

    Chak is a graduate of Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science in economics. She also holds a Master of Business Administration from Stanford University.

  • Noriko Kelley

    Executive Vice President, Programming Strategy, CBS Entertainment

    January 2021

    Noriko Kelley was promoted to Executive Vice President, Program Planning & Scheduling, CBS Entertainment, in June 2017, succeeding Kelly Kahl when he was named president of the division. She is the first-ever female head of scheduling for any broadcast television network.

    In this position, which reports to Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment, Kelley’s primary responsibility is overseeing the program planning and scheduling of all primetime programming for the CBS Television Network. She also supervises coordination between CBS programming divisions and the Network’s respective operations in sales, marketing, affiliate relations, news, sports and research, as well as with the CBS Television Stations Group.

    Previously, Kelley was Senior Vice President, Program Planning & Scheduling since August 2012. Prior to that, she was Vice President, Program Planning & Scheduling since April 2010, playing a role in many of the Network’s successful scheduling moves. Previously, she served as a director in the department since May 2007. In that time, Kelley has also worked with The CW and will continue in that capacity.

    Kelley moved into the scheduling department in 2003 as a coordinator, working with the department to schedule series, movies and specials for CBS and UPN. She was promoted to manager in February 2006. She began her career as an intern in the CBS research department in 2001, and in 2002 she was named a research analyst.

    Kelley is a graduate of USC with a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian languages and cultures and also has an M.A. in communication management from USC’s Annenberg School of Communication. She serves on the board of the USC Annenberg School of Communication Alumni Advisory and is a member of the USC Trojan Women’s Network.

    January 2021

    Noriko Kelley was promoted to Executive Vice President, Program Planning & Scheduling, CBS Entertainment, in June 2017, succeeding Kelly Kahl when he was named president of the division. She is the first-ever female head of scheduling for any broadcast television network.

    In this position, which reports to Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment, Kelley’s primary responsibility is overseeing the program planning and scheduling of all primetime programming for the CBS Television Network. She also supervises coordination between CBS programming divisions and the Network’s respective operations in sales, marketing, affiliate relations, news, sports and research, as well as with the CBS Television Stations Group.

    Previously, Kelley was Senior Vice President, Program Planning & Scheduling since August 2012. Prior to that, she was Vice President, Program Planning & Scheduling since April 2010, playing a role in many of the Network’s successful scheduling moves. Previously, she served as a director in the department since May 2007. In that time, Kelley has also worked with The CW and will continue in that capacity.

    Kelley moved into the scheduling department in 2003 as a coordinator, working with the department to schedule series, movies and specials for CBS and UPN. She was promoted to manager in February 2006. She began her career as an intern in the CBS research department in 2001, and in 2002 she was named a research analyst.

    Kelley is a graduate of USC with a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian languages and cultures and also has an M.A. in communication management from USC’s Annenberg School of Communication. She serves on the board of the USC Annenberg School of Communication Alumni Advisory and is a member of the USC Trojan Women’s Network.

  • Jeeun Kim

    Executive Vice President, Co-Head Business Affairs, CBS

    April 2021

    Jeeun Kim is the Executive Vice President, Co-Head of Business Affairs, CBS, reporting to Bryon Rubin, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, CBS.

    Ms. Kim co-leads a business affairs department that supports an industry-leading studio that is currently producing more than 75 series across 15 platforms and the most-watched broadcast network. In her position, Ms. Kim is responsible for overseeing all development, license, co-production and “above-the-line” deals for the production of scripted and unscripted series and specials for the Network.

    Ms. Kim, who joined CBS in October 2020, most recently served as Director, Business Affairs (Original Series) for Netflix, where she led a team of negotiators handling development, production and license deals for scripted development projects and series.

    Prior to that Ms. Kim spent 16 years at NBCUniversal in increasingly senior roles for its various divisions, including NBC Network, USA, Syfy, Universal Cable Productions and Universal Television. From 2015-2018, she was Senior Vice President, Business Affairs; Vice President, Business Affairs from 2007; Vice President of Legal Affairs since 2006; and held Senior Legal Counsel positions since 2002. Ms. Kim began her career as a lawyer, serving as an associate in the corporate departments of Latham & Watkins in Los Angeles and Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker in New York.

    Ms. Kim earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and her law degree from the Columbia University School of Law. She is a member of the bar in both California and New York.

    April 2021

    Jeeun Kim is the Executive Vice President, Co-Head of Business Affairs, CBS, reporting to Bryon Rubin, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, CBS.

    Ms. Kim co-leads a business affairs department that supports an industry-leading studio that is currently producing more than 75 series across 15 platforms and the most-watched broadcast network. In her position, Ms. Kim is responsible for overseeing all development, license, co-production and “above-the-line” deals for the production of scripted and unscripted series and specials for the Network.

    Ms. Kim, who joined CBS in October 2020, most recently served as Director, Business Affairs (Original Series) for Netflix, where she led a team of negotiators handling development, production and license deals for scripted development projects and series.

    Prior to that Ms. Kim spent 16 years at NBCUniversal in increasingly senior roles for its various divisions, including NBC Network, USA, Syfy, Universal Cable Productions and Universal Television. From 2015-2018, she was Senior Vice President, Business Affairs; Vice President, Business Affairs from 2007; Vice President of Legal Affairs since 2006; and held Senior Legal Counsel positions since 2002. Ms. Kim began her career as a lawyer, serving as an associate in the corporate departments of Latham & Watkins in Los Angeles and Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker in New York.

    Ms. Kim earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and her law degree from the Columbia University School of Law. She is a member of the bar in both California and New York.

  • Eric Kim

    Executive Vice President, Current Programs, CBS Entertainment and CBS Studios

    December 2022

    Eric Kim serves as the executive vice president of current programs. In his new role, Mr. Kim oversees current primetime and daytime programming on the CBS Television Network and for CBS Studios.

    Mr. Kim started at CBS in 2011. Over the last 11 years, he has overseen all phases of production on both comedy and drama series such as BLUE BLOODS, FBI: MOST WANTED, FBI: INTERNATIONAL, CSI and many more. Prior to joining the Network, he worked in live action series for Nickelodeon and Teen Nick from 2009-2011. He was also vice president of current programming at the CW from 2006-2009, and was part of the creative team that launched the new network when The WB and UPN networks merged. Mr. Kim was also an executive at UPN from 2004-2006.

    Mr. Kim got his start in the entertainment industry working for director Jonathan Demme on the Academy Award-winning film “Philadelphia” – upon its completion, he followed Demme to his production company in New York. 

    Mr. Kim graduated from The University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature. He currently sits on the board of Colour Entertainment, a non-profit organization of diverse executives in the media landscape. He also serves as a board member of non-profit Korean American Leaders in Hollywood (KALH). Formerly, he was a board member of the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment (CAPE). 

    December 2022

    Eric Kim serves as the executive vice president of current programs. In his new role, Mr. Kim oversees current primetime and daytime programming on the CBS Television Network and for CBS Studios.

    Mr. Kim started at CBS in 2011. Over the last 11 years, he has overseen all phases of production on both comedy and drama series such as BLUE BLOODS, FBI: MOST WANTED, FBI: INTERNATIONAL, CSI and many more. Prior to joining the Network, he worked in live action series for Nickelodeon and Teen Nick from 2009-2011. He was also vice president of current programming at the CW from 2006-2009, and was part of the creative team that launched the new network when The WB and UPN networks merged. Mr. Kim was also an executive at UPN from 2004-2006.

    Mr. Kim got his start in the entertainment industry working for director Jonathan Demme on the Academy Award-winning film “Philadelphia” – upon its completion, he followed Demme to his production company in New York. 

    Mr. Kim graduated from The University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature. He currently sits on the board of Colour Entertainment, a non-profit organization of diverse executives in the media landscape. He also serves as a board member of non-profit Korean American Leaders in Hollywood (KALH). Formerly, he was a board member of the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment (CAPE). 

  • Jon Koa

    Executive Vice President, Comedy Development, CBS Entertainment

    July 2021

    Respected network and studio veteran Jon Koa joined CBS as Executive Vice President, Comedy Development, in July 2021. He reports to Amy Reisenbach, President, CBS Entertainment.

    In his new role, Mr. Koa oversees all comedy development for CBS Entertainment’s primetime programming.

    Most recently, Mr. Koa served as Senior Vice President, Scripted Television for Condé Nast Entertainment since 2015, where he oversaw the development of the independent production entity’s series for network, streaming and cable. He also mined the publisher’s intellectual properties (including The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, Wired, GQ, Vogue, Glamour, Bon Appetit, and others) for new film and television content.

    Prior to joining Condé Nast, Mr. Koa served as Executive Director, Comedy Programming and Development, for the ABC Television Network from 2009 to 2015, where he was a member of the development team that launched “Black-ish”, “Fresh Off the Boat” and “The Goldbergs,” and was intimately involved with the development, launch and current programming of such series as “Happy Endings,” “Dr. Ken,” “Scrubs,” and several others. He began his entertainment career in 2006 in the drama development department at Universal Television, serving in ever-more-responsible roles and ultimately rising to Vice President of Drama Series. While there, he worked on such series as “House,” “Parenthood,” “Monk” and “Battlestar Galactica.”

    Mr. Koa graduated from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

    July 2021

    Respected network and studio veteran Jon Koa joined CBS as Executive Vice President, Comedy Development, in July 2021. He reports to Amy Reisenbach, President, CBS Entertainment.

    In his new role, Mr. Koa oversees all comedy development for CBS Entertainment’s primetime programming.

    Most recently, Mr. Koa served as Senior Vice President, Scripted Television for Condé Nast Entertainment since 2015, where he oversaw the development of the independent production entity’s series for network, streaming and cable. He also mined the publisher’s intellectual properties (including The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, Wired, GQ, Vogue, Glamour, Bon Appetit, and others) for new film and television content.

    Prior to joining Condé Nast, Mr. Koa served as Executive Director, Comedy Programming and Development, for the ABC Television Network from 2009 to 2015, where he was a member of the development team that launched “Black-ish”, “Fresh Off the Boat” and “The Goldbergs,” and was intimately involved with the development, launch and current programming of such series as “Happy Endings,” “Dr. Ken,” “Scrubs,” and several others. He began his entertainment career in 2006 in the drama development department at Universal Television, serving in ever-more-responsible roles and ultimately rising to Vice President of Drama Series. While there, he worked on such series as “House,” “Parenthood,” “Monk” and “Battlestar Galactica.”

    Mr. Koa graduated from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

  • Claudia Lyon

    Executive Vice President, Talent and Casting, CBS Entertainment

    May 2023

    Claudia Lyon was named executive vice president of talent and casting at CBS Entertainment in July 2019.

    In her role, Lyon oversees all talent and casting operations for CBS Entertainment’s primetime and daytime programming, limited series, alternative programs and specials. Among the Network projects she has been instrumental in casting are breakout series GHOSTS, NCIS: HAWAI’I and FIRE COUNTRY, along with upcoming new series MATLOCK, which stars Oscar® winner Kathy Bates, and ELSBETH, featuring Emmy Award® winner Carrie Preston and Tony® nominee Wendell Pierce.

    In September 2022, Lyon and the Network announced the CBS Performers with Disabilities Talent Initiative, an industry-first series of activations aimed at increasing opportunities for performers with disabilities and educating industry professionals at CBS and Paramount Global.

    Lyon also works closely with the corporate Office of Global Inclusion to produce Paramount’s annual CBS Showcase and is a member of the parent company’s global inclusion advisory council, co-chaired by CEO Bob Bakish.

    Prior to joining CBS, Lyon served as vice president of talent and casting at ABC Entertainment, where she oversaw casting for all ABC Studios and ABC Signature pilots and primetime series, including “Grey’s Anatomy,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” “Scandal,” “Black-Ish” and “High Fidelity.” Preceding that, Lyon oversaw the casting of “Ugly Betty” and the multi-Emmy Award and Golden Globe® Award-winning “Modern Family.” In addition, Lyon helped spearhead all aspects of ABC’s domestic, global and digital initiatives that identified, developed and mentored talent from around the world.

    Prior to joining Disney|ABC Television, Lyon was vice president of casting and talent at the WB Network, where she oversaw the casting of primetime series, including “Dawson’s Creek,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Felicity,” “Gilmore Girls” and “Supernatural.”

    Lyon has been honored as a “Powerful and Influential Latino in the Entertainment Industry” five times by The Imagen Foundation and was recently inducted into their Influential Latinos in Media Hall of Fame. Additionally, Lyon served on the advisory board for the NICA Foundation, an initiative to elevate rural communities in Central America, and has volunteered for Minds Matter and the National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications.

    May 2023

    Claudia Lyon was named executive vice president of talent and casting at CBS Entertainment in July 2019.

    In her role, Lyon oversees all talent and casting operations for CBS Entertainment’s primetime and daytime programming, limited series, alternative programs and specials. Among the Network projects she has been instrumental in casting are breakout series GHOSTS, NCIS: HAWAI’I and FIRE COUNTRY, along with upcoming new series MATLOCK, which stars Oscar® winner Kathy Bates, and ELSBETH, featuring Emmy Award® winner Carrie Preston and Tony® nominee Wendell Pierce.

    In September 2022, Lyon and the Network announced the CBS Performers with Disabilities Talent Initiative, an industry-first series of activations aimed at increasing opportunities for performers with disabilities and educating industry professionals at CBS and Paramount Global.

    Lyon also works closely with the corporate Office of Global Inclusion to produce Paramount’s annual CBS Showcase and is a member of the parent company’s global inclusion advisory council, co-chaired by CEO Bob Bakish.

    Prior to joining CBS, Lyon served as vice president of talent and casting at ABC Entertainment, where she oversaw casting for all ABC Studios and ABC Signature pilots and primetime series, including “Grey’s Anatomy,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” “Scandal,” “Black-Ish” and “High Fidelity.” Preceding that, Lyon oversaw the casting of “Ugly Betty” and the multi-Emmy Award and Golden Globe® Award-winning “Modern Family.” In addition, Lyon helped spearhead all aspects of ABC’s domestic, global and digital initiatives that identified, developed and mentored talent from around the world.

    Prior to joining Disney|ABC Television, Lyon was vice president of casting and talent at the WB Network, where she oversaw the casting of primetime series, including “Dawson’s Creek,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Felicity,” “Gilmore Girls” and “Supernatural.”

    Lyon has been honored as a “Powerful and Influential Latino in the Entertainment Industry” five times by The Imagen Foundation and was recently inducted into their Influential Latinos in Media Hall of Fame. Additionally, Lyon served on the advisory board for the NICA Foundation, an initiative to elevate rural communities in Central America, and has volunteered for Minds Matter and the National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications.

  • Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i

    Executive Vice President, Entertainment Diversity and Inclusion, Paramount

    January 2022

    Tiffany Smith-Anoa’i was named Executive Vice President, Entertainment Diversity & Inclusion,  Paramount, in July 2020.

    In this role, Tiffany leads entertainment-focused diversity and inclusion initiatives across CBS Entertainment, Showtime, Media Networks and Paramount Pictures. She also oversees the company’s creative development programs, talent initiatives and outreach to agencies, multicultural coalitions, guilds and other key inclusion stakeholders, which was part of her most recent role at CBS. 

    Prior to her current Paramount position, Smith-Anoa’i was Executive Vice President, Entertainment Diversity, Inclusion & Communications for CBS Entertainment. An innovator in both entertainment publicity and diversity, Tiffany was promoted to that position in 2016 and charged with shepherding the entertainment division’s diversity and inclusion initiatives and supporting communication efforts. She developed new programs to recruit, nurture and hire inclusive talent to work in front of and behind the camera and helped launch several notable careers.

    In 2015, Tiffany was appointed Senior Vice President of Entertainment Diversity & Communications after serving as Vice President, Entertainment Diversity & Communications, CBS Entertainment since 2009. In these roles, Smith-Anoa’i created and launched “CBS On Tour,” a community outreach program in which executives visit schools to educate and encourage students interested in entertainment careers; expanded the writer selection process for “The CBS Diversity Sketch Comedy Showcase”; implemented an annual symposium with casting directors to strategize on best practices to diversify the casting process; partnered with GLAAD to host learning workshops; and joined forces with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media to encourage a variety of acting and industry roles for women.

    In February 2018, Smith-Anoa’i co-founded CBS EYE Speak, a program designed to promote female empowerment and help forge a path of growth and opportunity for women, both inside and outside of the company. Since its inception, the group has held several events, including screenings, panels and fireside chats featuring some of the strongest female voices in the industry.

    Smith-Anoa’i first joined CBS Entertainment in 2000 as a senior publicist for primetime series and specials.

    Prior to CBS, Smith-Anoa’i was responsible for all aspects of publicity and promotions for Image Public Relations. Among her many projects, she organized the global press outreach for “Sinbad’s Soul Music Festival.” Preceding her role at Image, Smith-Anoa’i worked for NIKE, Inc. where she launched their NIKETOWN stores in Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco.

    Smith-Anoa’i’s community service and charity work includes the Human Rights Campaign, #SeeHer, ADCOLOR, Easterseals Disability Challenge, Young Storytellers, The Unusual Suspects and Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. She serves as a board member for ColorComm, Big Sunday, The Muslim Public Affairs Council and on the business advisory board for the National Hispanic Media Coalition. She is also a Board of Trustee member for The Archer School for Girls. In 2019 Smith-Anoa’i received the Adweek + ADCOLOR Champions Award for her commitment to growing and promoting diversity and inclusion within and outside the walls of CBS Entertainment.

    Smith-Anoa’i maintains a close relationship with her alma mater, Howard University, where she graduated with honors from the School of Communications. In 2013, Howard University presented her with the “Global Visionary Award” for Outstanding Leadership in Diversity and Communications.

     

    January 2022

    Tiffany Smith-Anoa’i was named Executive Vice President, Entertainment Diversity & Inclusion,  Paramount, in July 2020.

    In this role, Tiffany leads entertainment-focused diversity and inclusion initiatives across CBS Entertainment, Showtime, Media Networks and Paramount Pictures. She also oversees the company’s creative development programs, talent initiatives and outreach to agencies, multicultural coalitions, guilds and other key inclusion stakeholders, which was part of her most recent role at CBS. 

    Prior to her current Paramount position, Smith-Anoa’i was Executive Vice President, Entertainment Diversity, Inclusion & Communications for CBS Entertainment. An innovator in both entertainment publicity and diversity, Tiffany was promoted to that position in 2016 and charged with shepherding the entertainment division’s diversity and inclusion initiatives and supporting communication efforts. She developed new programs to recruit, nurture and hire inclusive talent to work in front of and behind the camera and helped launch several notable careers.

    In 2015, Tiffany was appointed Senior Vice President of Entertainment Diversity & Communications after serving as Vice President, Entertainment Diversity & Communications, CBS Entertainment since 2009. In these roles, Smith-Anoa’i created and launched “CBS On Tour,” a community outreach program in which executives visit schools to educate and encourage students interested in entertainment careers; expanded the writer selection process for “The CBS Diversity Sketch Comedy Showcase”; implemented an annual symposium with casting directors to strategize on best practices to diversify the casting process; partnered with GLAAD to host learning workshops; and joined forces with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media to encourage a variety of acting and industry roles for women.

    In February 2018, Smith-Anoa’i co-founded CBS EYE Speak, a program designed to promote female empowerment and help forge a path of growth and opportunity for women, both inside and outside of the company. Since its inception, the group has held several events, including screenings, panels and fireside chats featuring some of the strongest female voices in the industry.

    Smith-Anoa’i first joined CBS Entertainment in 2000 as a senior publicist for primetime series and specials.

    Prior to CBS, Smith-Anoa’i was responsible for all aspects of publicity and promotions for Image Public Relations. Among her many projects, she organized the global press outreach for “Sinbad’s Soul Music Festival.” Preceding her role at Image, Smith-Anoa’i worked for NIKE, Inc. where she launched their NIKETOWN stores in Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco.

    Smith-Anoa’i’s community service and charity work includes the Human Rights Campaign, #SeeHer, ADCOLOR, Easterseals Disability Challenge, Young Storytellers, The Unusual Suspects and Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. She serves as a board member for ColorComm, Big Sunday, The Muslim Public Affairs Council and on the business advisory board for the National Hispanic Media Coalition. She is also a Board of Trustee member for The Archer School for Girls. In 2019 Smith-Anoa’i received the Adweek + ADCOLOR Champions Award for her commitment to growing and promoting diversity and inclusion within and outside the walls of CBS Entertainment.

    Smith-Anoa’i maintains a close relationship with her alma mater, Howard University, where she graduated with honors from the School of Communications. In 2013, Howard University presented her with the “Global Visionary Award” for Outstanding Leadership in Diversity and Communications.

     

  • Sahand Sepehrnia

    Executive Vice President of Digital Content Strategy and Business for CBS News, Stations, Entertainment and Sports

    January 2024

    Sahand Sepehrnia is executive vice president of digital content strategy and business for CBS News, Stations, Entertainment and Sports. He leads content strategy and development and business operations across all CBS streaming platforms, where he is responsible for growing streaming audiences and revenue. Sepehrnia also oversees the incubation and development of new streaming channels, leveraging IP across the CBS portfolio.

    Sepehrnia joined CBS in February 2022 and previously served as senior vice president of streaming for CBS Stations. In his current role, he will continue to oversee the day-to-day and long-term strategic vision for the programming, production, editorial and operational functions of CBS Stations’ 14 local streaming channels, as well as oversight of CBS Stations’ digital business.

    Under his leadership, CBS Stations’ streaming channels have marked several records. In only two years, CBS Stations collectively grew to #1 in streaming in its markets from being ranked #4, cumulating more than eight billion minutes streamed in 2023. Additionally, Sepehrnia launched Car Chase – the first streaming channel with 24/7 police chases – and CBS News Detroit.

    Sepehrnia joined CBS Stations from The Walt Disney Company, where he served as executive director of content strategy and analysis for ABC Owned Television Stations. While there, he oversaw content strategy and analysis, business intelligence, data architecture and consumer research. Prior to that, Sepehrnia led digital strategy for Disney/ABC Television Group.

    Before joining Disney, Sepehrnia worked in corporate strategy at Mattel, where he focused on innovation and technology strategy, and helped drive hypergrowth in the company’s direct-to-consumer business.

    His background also includes positions with Bain & Company and firms in the private equity and M&A sectors.

    Sepehrnia earned his bachelor’s degree in management science with the highest distinction honors from the University of California, San Diego. He earned his MBA with six majors (entrepreneurship, management and strategy, finance, marketing, managerial analytics and decision sciences) from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

    He is based on the west coast.

    January 2024

    Sahand Sepehrnia is executive vice president of digital content strategy and business for CBS News, Stations, Entertainment and Sports. He leads content strategy and development and business operations across all CBS streaming platforms, where he is responsible for growing streaming audiences and revenue. Sepehrnia also oversees the incubation and development of new streaming channels, leveraging IP across the CBS portfolio.

    Sepehrnia joined CBS in February 2022 and previously served as senior vice president of streaming for CBS Stations. In his current role, he will continue to oversee the day-to-day and long-term strategic vision for the programming, production, editorial and operational functions of CBS Stations’ 14 local streaming channels, as well as oversight of CBS Stations’ digital business.

    Under his leadership, CBS Stations’ streaming channels have marked several records. In only two years, CBS Stations collectively grew to #1 in streaming in its markets from being ranked #4, cumulating more than eight billion minutes streamed in 2023. Additionally, Sepehrnia launched Car Chase – the first streaming channel with 24/7 police chases – and CBS News Detroit.

    Sepehrnia joined CBS Stations from The Walt Disney Company, where he served as executive director of content strategy and analysis for ABC Owned Television Stations. While there, he oversaw content strategy and analysis, business intelligence, data architecture and consumer research. Prior to that, Sepehrnia led digital strategy for Disney/ABC Television Group.

    Before joining Disney, Sepehrnia worked in corporate strategy at Mattel, where he focused on innovation and technology strategy, and helped drive hypergrowth in the company’s direct-to-consumer business.

    His background also includes positions with Bain & Company and firms in the private equity and M&A sectors.

    Sepehrnia earned his bachelor’s degree in management science with the highest distinction honors from the University of California, San Diego. He earned his MBA with six majors (entrepreneurship, management and strategy, finance, marketing, managerial analytics and decision sciences) from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

    He is based on the west coast.

}