As Head of Unscripted Programming at CBSViacom’s BET Networks, Marisa Levy oversees the development and production of all original non-fiction programming across BET and newly launched SVOD service BET+.  She is a consummate storyteller with an impressive track record of understanding diverse audiences and developing content that resonates with them. Marisa’s keen understanding of American and international audiences has allowed her to create successful, long-running programming around the world. Since joining BET, Marisa re-launched beloved gospel competition seriesSunday Bestto ratings success, guided BET into the crime genre with the hit showMurder in the Thirst, and turned the traditional police-follow docu-series on its head with the launch of Copwatch America.

Prior to joining BET, Marisa served as Creative Consultant at Viacom sister networks MTV and VH1, creating new programming and adapting international formats for the channels including MTV’s breakout series. Marisa served as Vice President of Program Development at TLC where she created and developed many of the network’s signature hit shows including My Big Fat Fabulous Life, Sex Sent Me to the ER, Extreme Cheapskates, Long Island Medium, and Unexpected.

Levy began her television career at Discovery Communications with Discovery Health Channel helping launch hit franchise Jon & Kate Plus 8 and The Duggars. She then served as Manager of Television & Digital Content Development at Brainbox Entertainment, producing hit programs for HGTV and Food Network. She then joined international production company Story House Productions as Vice President of Sales & Development, producing projects for Fox, SyFy, A&E, Discovery Channel, MTV, History, Investigation Discovery, MSNBC, and National Geographic Channel. Prior to joining the television industry, she produced and directed award-winning independent documentaries.

Levy holds an undergraduate degree from Rice University, a Masters of the Arts degree from the Hogeschool voor de Kunsten, Utrecht in The Netherlands and studied towards a doctorate at the University of Cape Town, South Africa.

Speaking on: 30 Minutes With: Marisa Levy, BET Networks