Denise Denson

It has not been the easiest year for Denson and her team. In April, Cable One and some smaller operators dropped Viacom’s suite of networks. In October, Suddenlink followed suit. But Denson hasn’t let those setbacks slow her down. Her team most recently wrapped up a multi-year renewal with Verizon. Denson also turned heads when Viacom became the first programmer to publicly announce a deal with Sony’s forthcoming cloud-based TV service, marking the company’s first-ever agreement to provide its networks for an Internet-based live TV and VOD service. It’s clear that Denson will be one of the leaders in the new art of the deal.

How can cable do better job at supporting the industry’s women?

Great strides have been made, but cable can do better – especially when it comes to appointing women to the industry’s top-most positions. We need to start with a look around the senior table, because ensuring gender balance there will lead to equality at all levels.

What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?

Consolidation has been the hot, recurring headline in cable news this year – whether centered on major cable operators uniting, or regional players consolidating into larger ones.

How do you define a successful career?

To me, a successful career is defined by challenges, growth and enjoyment. If you are constantly challenged and pushed to grow, while surrounded by people you enjoy, that’s success.

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?

I try to be present wherever I am – and when balance is hard to strike, my trick is having a good sense of humor about the lack thereof!

When not in the office, where are we most likely to find you?

At a Northwestern lacrosse game cheering on my daughter and her team. Go Wildcats!