Shannon Driver

SVP, Network Marketing & Creative Services, Scripps Networks Interactive

Driver has overall responsibility for all six of Scripps Networks’ domestic brands—HGTV, Food Network, Travel Channel, DIY Network, Cooking Channel and Great American Country—and continues to elevate the company’s cross-network marketing strategy across all channels. Among her team’s recent successes: the HGTV Lodge at the CMA Music Festival, and the N.Y. and South Beach editions of the popular Food Network & Cooking Channel Wine & Food Festival. “I love being a part of the industry at a time when you can consume content and never have to explain to your daughters, nieces or mentees that ‘one day’ a woman might be able to have that role,” she says. “Today is that day.”

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

I am fortunate to work in a company within the cable industry that is the definition of gender equality. Our executive team – from content creation to legal to finance – is comprised of some of the smartest minds in cable. They just happen to be women. That mindset is reflected throughout our entire organization. To work at SNI, women having a seat at the table isn’t a goal – it’s the norm and the expectation.

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

I think I would say the same things that I say to myself to and my team now… Be nice, be accountable, work hard, and make time for fun. You only get one shot at each day – so make the most of it.

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

I am happy to say my list would be long. There are diverse women in strong lead roles in every genre these days – scripted dramas and comedy, reality, news, talk shows, sports – and just as importantly, they are behind the cameras too. I love being a part of the industry at a time when you can consume content and never have to explain to your daughters, nieces or mentees that “one day” a woman might be able to have that role. Today is that day.

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

I don’t know as it would be defined as the biggest, but one that grabbed my attention the most was Disney looking at Twitter. I am not sure the outcome of the story is even that important – but more so that an established media giant in the traditional space would seriously consider buying an equal behemoth in the digital space. I think a merger of that caliber could signals a meaningful change in how content is distributed, audiences aggregated and the re-imagination of monetization models.