Jennifer Chun

Being involved in numerous high-profile retrans negotiations this year didn’t keep Chun from acquiring content for all of TWC’s platforms while always seeking unique and engaging content for a diverse group of customers. “Diversity is not just about welcoming different voices into the room (and expecting them to morph themselves into the prevailing norm), but actually respecting and listening to the different perspectives those voices have to offer,” she says. “To me, that’s also true inclusion—where people are given the opportunity to participate actively and not just sit on the sidelines.“

What’s the definition of diversity in 2014, and how can the cable industry do better in the area of inclusiveness?

I think diversity is not just about welcoming different voices into the room (and expecting them to morph themselves into the prevailing norm), but actually respecting and listening to the difference perspectives those voices have to offer. To me, that’s also true inclusion – where people are given the opportunity to participate actively, and not just sit on the sidelines.

Who has been your strongest mentor, and why?

I’ve learned different things from different people, so there isn’t one person who I would say is the strongest.  But my current mentor, Melinda Witmer, has taught me many things. One important lesson is that you don’t have to pigeon-hole yourself into a single type of personality or executive. She can be laser-focused on detail but also big-picture at the same time. She is decisive, but collaborative. She is fearless, but reflective. She is a person with strong convictions, but open to debate. I could go on and on about why she is a strong mentor.

What qualities do you look for when making a new hire?

Among other things, I look for new hires that are self-confident but aren’t fixated on puffery. Candor is a great asset – someone who can freely admit mistakes or lack of knowledge. I think that person has a better shot of learning more, forging better relationships and contributing to a tighter team with better morale.