Jennifer Dangar

When the Weather Channel regained carriage on DirecTV after a three-month-long blackout this past year, Dangar was the one who made it happen. But this passionate, collaborative and strategic exec also knows how to balance hard work and down time. “Pick a great boss to work for,” she says. “One who understands how hard you work and gives you the flexibility to do what you need to when you need to—and never apologize or feel guilty about spending time with your family.”

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

I think keeping all types of diversity top of mind as we hire, mentor and do succession planning is really the key to creating more opportunity at the top for women. Women add so much to the mix it’s crucial that they are represented at all levels as we strategize, develop, sell and market our products.

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

Merger mania!

How do you define a successful career?

Being happy in the job you are in and open to all the possibilities that lie ahead.

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?

Pick a great boss to work for. One who understands how hard you work and gives you the flexibility to do what you need to when you need to—and never apologize or feel guilty about spending time with your family.

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

With my family. My mini-me, Grace, keeps me hopping when I’m not at work. I also love a good book, cooking and entertaining friends.