Maureen Guthman

Guthman’s successful planning, packaging and scheduling of all TV One programming helped the net bag its highest-rated summer and Q3 in 2013. She grew the number of original programming hours by 20% from 2013 to 2014, and was instrumental in doubling TV One’s original programming, including reality series “R&B Divas” and scripted “The Rickey Smiley Show.” Of diversity, she says, “we need to make the transition in our minds from thinking that diversity is just touchy-feely aspiration, but rather a determinant of our survival in this business.”

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

We need to make the transition in our minds from thinking that diversity is just touchy-feely aspiration, but rather a determinant of our survival in this business.

Who has been your strongest mentor, and why?

Jerry Leo, EVP of Program Strategy and Acquisitions–Bravo  and Oxygen Media.  I’m lucky in that he’s both a friend and a mentor.  Over the 15 years that I’ve known him, he’s gotten me to  expand my belief in what I deemed was possible.

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

I really value determination and passion.  Having those two qualities better ensures me that even when met with obstacles, challenges and setbacks, the employee has the raw materials to soldier through.  Intelligence doesn’t hurt either.