McCumber and Wachtel jointly oversee strategic direction, programming and operations across all platforms for the network.
“We’re delighted to recognize them for their extraordinary efforts, which have led USA to be the most-watched cable network for an unprecedented seventh summer in a row,” said awards committee chairman Henri Bollinger. “The executives have delivered the network’s most profitable third quarter this year, while developing and launching award-winning and critically acclaimed original programming.”
McCumber and Wachtel took over as co-presidents in March of 2011. McCumber has been with USA since 2001, previously serving as executive vice president of marketing, digital and brand strategy. He is responsible for the conception, development and execution of Characters Welcome – the first comprehensive multiplatform brand identity for USA in its 30-year history, as well as Characters Unite – USA’s public service commitment to combat prejudice and discrimination.
Also to be handed out at the Publicists luncheon are the motion picture showman of the year award; a lifetime achievement award; the Maxwell Weinberg motion picture and television publicist awards – awards voted on by members for domestic and international press; the Bob Yeager award, given to a member for community work, and the Les Mason award – the top honor for a publicist.