Rich Jennings

It took a team of go-getters to launch the X1 operating system over the last year. So when assembling teams, Jennings looks for candidates with the potential to move “at least two levels higher than the position they are applying for.” As far as emerging trends in cable go, Jennings notes, “Keep your eyes on the cloud. The implication of hosted technology is very far-reaching. It can turn our existing models for set-top devices, storage limits, content cataloguing, portability and other content manipulations (along with a whole host of other applications) totally upside-down!”

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

I think Diversity is the constant introduction of the presence of what is absent at any given time….  This suggests that to be truly diverse, you are CONSTANTLY seeking to include that which is under or non-represented in your space. How do we get better at “Inclusiveness”?  Be deliberate about it. There are very few “happy accidents”.

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

“Capacity”… Past experiences and successes that suggest that candidate will have the potential to move at least two levels higher than the position they are applying for… “Cube”… This suggests a variety of experiences that add depth to the core expertise/skillset of the candidate.  For example; overseas experiences, engagement in areas outside of their functional expertise, community involvement, etc…

Name one emerging trend in cable we should all have our eye on.

Keep your eyes on the “Cloud”…  The implication of hosted technology is very far-reaching.  It can turn our existing models for set-top devices, storage limits, content cataloging,  portability and other content manipulations (along with a whole host of other applications) totally upside-down!