December 10, 2009

CableFAX: 26. Charting a New Course: Neil Smit

Neil Smit
Title: Pres/CEO, Charter Comm
Age: 51
Education: BS, Duke U; MA, Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy
Social Media Quotient: 4

Why Him? Smit relishes complex problems, and he clearly received one as Charter was tied up in NY bankruptcy court for months before the it approved a reorg plan in mid Nov. Now, Charter sports a healthier balance sheet and more operational flexibility. And with Charter’s DOCSIS 3.0 rollout, the MSO has delivered revenue growth in each ’09 Q while achieving gains in HSD and phone subs.

Upcoming: Smooth implementation of the reorg plan is key.

The Year Ahead:

Since Charter’s performed well despite financial troubles, increased flexibility should only help in launching products and services.

Favorite Restaurant: Joan’s Log Cabin

When I Need to Recharge, I...: Get out on any body of water.

Trait I Most Admire: Honesty

3 Things I’d Take to a Deserted Island: My family, a boat, a complex problem to solve that required input of many people.

Best Business Advice Received: Business is simple – don’t over-complicate it.