THR's Women in Entertainment 2012: Power 100

The first — and longest-serving — woman to head sales for a major broadcaster, Ross, 59, again led her top-rated network to the highest advertising rate increases in the industry during this year’s upfront sales of about $2.75 billion. CBS scored CPM increases of up to 15 percent — no other network exceeded 12 percent. Heading toward a sold-out Super Bowl, CBS ramped up sports sales, including those for the AFC playoffs and NCAA basketball, with Turner Sports.

Moment I knew I wanted to work in the business: When I interviewed at Bozell + Jacobs in the early 1980s with a gentleman who unfortunately is no longer with us, Paul Wigand, and his office was really busy. There was so much energy.

My indulgence: Either a martini or a Manhattan on the weekends.

Totally starstruck around: LL Cool J. He’s one of our stars, and I love him!

What I’d tell my 22-year-old self about working in Hollywood: “Don’t believe your own press.”

Best advice I’ve ever gotten: “Don’t forget whence you came.”

When my relatives are confused about what I do, I tell them: “I bring in some money for the company.”

Proudest moment this year: When Leslie Moonves gave me my award at the Service Award Dinner to commemorate 20 years at the company.

Top three shows on my DVR: The Good Wife, The Amazing Race and Homeland.

Click here to read THR's complete Women in Entertainment list.