Savalle Sims

EVP, Deputy General Counsel, Discovery Communications

Sims manages all litigation and intellectual property matters for Discovery Communications — which is no small feat considering the company’s continual investment in content and IP across the globe. Her duties range from overseeing risk management to working closely with business affairs, talent management and production. Known as a strategic, top-notch litigator with an expertise in both domestic and international law, Sims will continue to lead all legal efforts relating to the company’s intellectual property, including trademark, patent and copyright portfolios. Sims tells us cable has made great strides in being more inclusive from a gender perspective, but there’s room for improvement. “For the cable industry, that means placing a continued and equal focus on all aspects of the business, both on-screen and off.”

Which sector of the cable industry best demonstrates gender equality? Which could use some enlightenment?

The cable industry has made great strides in being more inclusive from a gender perspective. There is always room for improvement and additional ground to cover.  For the cable industry, that means placing a continued and equal focus on all aspects of the business, both on-screen and off.

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

I would tell my 13-year-old self that as long as you are kind and authentic you shouldn’t worry about what other people think. And, keep a journal.

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

There are a number of current shows embracing inclusion. They all share a common thread in that they depict the rich tapestry of the diverse, multi-cultural and complex society that we live in and bring women characters to life in more than a one-dimensional manner.