Melinda Witmer
If overseeing video and content strategy, including all distribution arrangements, wasn’t a heavy enough workload, Witmer also oversees the company’s 40 regional and local news, sports, traffic channels, as well as two regional sports networks. With the Dodgers RSN fuss and the pending Comcast acquisition, it’s been anything but a quiet year. But Witmer forges ahead, with a reputation as a tough negotiator, but also a problem solver. Her definition of a successful career includes working for “people you admire and respect and pay it forward. If you don’t respect and admire your leaders, change jobs. You want to learn from the best.”
How can cable do better job at supporting the industry’s women?
Prioritize getting them to the c-suite and support mentoring programs across the industry to help them get to and stay in the c-suite. Page one of the org chart needs to reflect a commitment to diversity and inclusion—and particularly women—to provide role models and credible inspiration that women can break through. Glenn Britt was a great supporter of women advancing and his legacy of diversity and inclusion was industry leading. He set the course for the company, which continues today to lead by example in support of women and diversity and inclusion in our leadership.
How do you define a successful career?
Making the best contribution you can make. Being the best teammate you can be and playing to win with integrity and humility. Work for people you admire and respect and pay it forward. If you don’t respect and admire your leaders, change jobs. You want to learn from the best.
Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?
Pick a career you love and find something that fills your days with accomplishment and challenge. Draw lines you won’t cross and stick to your commitments – professional and personal. Include your family and colleagues in understanding your boundaries and needs so you can manage expectations and be inclusive. Everyone knows it takes a village and I found giving my best in both places to the best of my ability meant having support at home and in the office. Be present.
