Rita Mullin
Moving from her gig at OWN to take over Science in April, Mullin inherits an increasingly strong net that has raised its profile in recent years with series like “Through the Wormhole with Morgan Freeman.” Now Mullin plans to broaden Science’s reach to include programming covering engineering, medical technology and weather. She escapes from her job by enjoying a great book. “I am a voracious bibliophile even penning a children’s book earlier in my career,” she says.
How can cable do better job at supporting the industry’s women?
Cable is actually doing a better job already than most industries at showcasing women in leadership roles. Many of the top positions in cable television today are led by women. No one does a better job of that than at Discovery Communications. I am proud to be the General Manager of Science Channel. The cable world is paving the way for female leaders which other industries should try to emulate.
What’s been the biggest story in cable this year?
The news that stood out and is most prevalent in the work I do every day is how to engage the ever-changing audience with compelling content that they can view on any platform. The idea of a sedentary viewer who tunes into a non-live event is becoming less and less of the norm. How do we make our content, our network, a destination that audiences consider a ‘must’ and part of their entertainment experience? From live, streaming to interactivity, to pushing the boundaries of what is safe; I think this is a struggle everyone in the cable world is facing and the next few years should prove extremely interesting in terms of what ingenuity and new ideas companies will endorse.
How do you define a successful career?
A successful career isn’t always determined by the number of accolades one receives but more so about the challenges he or she was able to overcome. Taking something, a product, an idea, a concept that was dismissed or even considered a failure and making something new and fresh out of it is the definition of a true success. It is how one rises from the failure that determines their longevity in any industry.
Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?
It certainly is a delicate tight-rope act! Remaining organized has certainly helped me navigate through the day’s unexpected twists and turns. Also, I find it important to make time for me which allows me to be a better family member and ultimately a better leader and colleague to those around me.
When not in the office, where are we most likely to find you?
Reading! I am a voracious bibliophile even penning a children’s book earlier in my career. Reading is my ultimate escape and indulgence.