Debra L. Lee is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BET Networks.
In this role, Lee runs the leading provider of entertainment for the African-American audience and consumers of Black culture globally. Under Lee’s leadership, BET Networks has become a successfully reinvigorated brand with visionary programming.
Lee oversees one of the most influential multiplatform media companies in the world, including several cable television networks and digital offerings.
Named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s “100 Most Powerful Women in Entertainment”, Lee’s achievements in a 25-plus year career at BET Networks have earned her numerous awards as one of this country’s most respected business executives.
Lee serves on the board of Marriott International Inc., Twitter, Inc. and WGL Holdings, Inc.
Lee holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with an emphasis in Asian Politics from Brown University, a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, while simultaneously earning a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government. Lee has a Doctor of Humane Letters from Brown University.
