Jennifer Hightower

SVP & General Counsel, Law & Policy, Cox Communications

Hightower’s role at Cox may be more vital than ever before, given the unprecedented competitive, regulatory and other changes facing the industry today. As someone who advises senior executives on policy and strategic initiatives, she says the biggest story in the industry this year is “unprecedented levels of regulatory interest in our business.” Now also serving as the company’s general counsel, Hightower seeks to expand and elevate the legal team’s role in overall planning objectives. She’s also on the internal planning team for 2017-18 company objectives, and a co-chair of the Enterprise Risk Management Governance team.

Which sector of the cable industry best demonstrates gender equality? Which could use some enlightenment?

Programmers have led the way with women in senior leadership roles and, while it has improved, there is still more room for growth among operators.

What advice would you give your 13-year-old self?

Take a deep breath and be confident in yourself.

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

Unprecedented levels of regulatory interest in our business.