Monica Williams

VP, Business Operations, Technology & Strategy, NBCUniversal

Williams, born and raised in China, moved to the U.S. with her family in fifth grade not knowing a word of English. Today, she is a role model and leader looking to inspire not only Asian-Americans but also young women pursuing careers in cable. It’s not easy juggling both the professional world as well as the family front for women. That’s why Williams says she wants to see more programming that better demonstrates it is possible, while portraying the challenges in balancing a career and family. “I personally would find that gratifying and inspiring!” she says.

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

Be a sponge and soak up as much as you can, be receptive to feedback, and most importantly be confident in who you are.

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

While there are more roles in current programming that showcase strong women leads, I would like to see more female characters that are strong in the professional world as well as on the family front. It’s certainly not easy juggling both, but it would be great if programming today could better demonstrate that it is possible, while portraying the challenges in balancing a career and family. I personally would find that gratifying and inspiring!

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

OTT product is certainly a hot topic as we’re seeing it become more prevalent in the marketplace, and of course the FCC’s controversial set-top box proposal. As traditional business models continue to evolve, it’s definitely an exciting time for television and consumers!