WHO IS PATTY GENESTE?

1. What is your function? Not just your title, but what do you do?
Ah! It's more a matter of what don't I do! Even though it's my company and we have grown into becoming a main player in the format industry, I'd say... never feel too good to make a nice cup of coffee. 

2. How long have you been with Absolutely Independent?
Ever since the beginning. Since I started the company...And even after all this time, I still love it!

3. What did you do previously?
Various jobs in the television industry, from public broadcaster to commercial broadcaster and independent production companies. One of my best and most learning experiences was with Joop van den Ende Productions before the merger with John de Mol. We worked in a small team and with a lot of passion, introducing the company's fantastic formats abroad...It wasn't easy, as that was a time when most people allowed themselves to be, shall we say, "inspired" by what they saw in other countries. But of course that doesn't happen anymore. Or does it?

4. What did you study, if anything?
I have a bachelor's degree in communication.

5. What do you do in your spare time?
I still participate in rowing races and am on a team with eight women. Other than that, I try to find time to work out as much as possible. Even though my work continues to take a lot of my time. Alternatively I like to go out for a beer (or two...or three...) with my friends...

6.What (or who) is your passion in life?
First of all, building my business to a high level of quality as one of the main players in the format distribution business. In addition my private life is very important to me, and I try to enjoy it fully even though time is limited. Enjoying my soul mate and my animals and, last but not least, my home environment...Living on the water feels like a little holiday, even if just for a few hours a day...

7. What do you like best about your job at Absolutely Independent?
The variety of it! It's creative, it's business, it's worldwide, it has everything that fits my personality (maybe that's why I started the business in the first place). And you know what, I love it to see the people who work for my company enjoying their jobs for the same reasons!

8. What would you like to share about yourself that hasn't been asked?
I am addicted to licorice, and I LOVE primetime entertainment shows!