Longtime president of BET Debra L. Lee is stepping down from that role and will serve as chairman and CEO of the network.

“As I look to the future, I believe it is the right time to take a step back from day-to-day responsibilities at BET,” Lee said, reflecting on her more than 20 years leading BET. Bob Bakish, president and CEO of BET’s parent company Viacom, praised Lee’s contributions toward turning the network into “a truly global entertainment powerhouse.”

Lee has been with BET since 1986 when she was named VP and general counsel. She was elevated to President and COO in 1996, and became CEO of BET Networks in June 2005.

We wish Debra Lee the best!