Jennifer Garrett

SVP, National Sales, Cox Communications

By expanding digital to 20 percent of company sales, Garrett enabled seamless interaction between digital and physical sales channels, which positioned Cox as a provider that meets customers’ needs anywhere and anytime. Prioritizing investment in tools and technology for the national sales force raised work order solutions to an all-time high. She ensured 1,300-plus call center employees followed customer-centric behaviors that boosted Net Promoter scores and employee engagement. Garrett’s advice to her younger self is clear. “Work hard; play hard. Get to know as many people as you can, help them, invest in them, support other women and girls openly and passionately. Care about our world and invest your energy in making it a better place.”

Which sector of the cable industry best demonstrates gender equality? Which could use some enlightenment?  Networks lead the way for women. MSO have an opportunity within Operations and Technology groups specifically: these are our largest departments and could make a powerful impact. We must invest in women early in their career and give them the coaching, development and training needed to succeed.

What advice would you give your 13-year-old self? Work hard; play hard. Get to know as many people as you can, help them, invest in them, support other women and girls openly and passionately. Care about our world and invest your energy in making it a better place.

Which current programming best reflects the kind of women’s roles you like to see and why?

I think having more and more women anchors on major news networks is a very good thing — Katie Couric, Megyn Kelly, Robin Meade and others are great examples and show what women can really bring to the table.

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

Certainly, the continued consolidation in our industry is probably the biggest story, followed by the increased regulatory involvement in our business.