Antoinette Zel

SEVP of Network Strategy, Telemundo

WHY WE’RE WATCHING: Zel has her hands on a number of networks and projects as NBC Universal attempts to narrow the gap versus Spanish-language giant Univision Communications Inc. on the broadcast and cable side. As for the latter, mun2 is one of at least four networks — MTV Español, LATV and Voy are also in the hunt — that targets Latino youth by moving back and forth from English to Spanish. Mun2, which migrated its headquarters from Miami to Los Angeles, expects to complete a significant transformation this year.

HIGH ’05s: “Working closely with [Telemundo president] Don Browne on exciting work in network strategy position at Telemundo. Moving Mun2 to Los Angeles gave us new operations with offices and a studio. That was part of our hyper-focus on cable initiatives, which also included the relaunch of a strong “authentic” mun2 aimed at U.S. Latino youth; the relaunch of Latin American cable network Telemundo, and the launch of new Puerto Rico-centric Telemundo Puerto Rico."

PICKS IN ’06: We’ll focus on the growth of the core business for Telemundo via strategic marketing alliances, and key market focus. Through new program launches and newly-hired talent, mun2’s transformation will be complete. making 2006 the network’s year for distribution and ratings growth.”

MY TIME: “I spend every free moment I can with my amazing hubby and family — We have three young sons, who keep us very busy with guitar lessons, learning to bike, baking rice krispie treats or just playing hide and seek in the house. Life is about that in the end.”