Tracy Pitcher

“Women continue to move into leadership roles in nearly every function of our business,” notes Pitcher. And she should know. Recently named to head Comcast’s Greater Boston Region, she oversees nearly 5,000 employees and the end-to-end operations in the region. Formerly SVP of SMB operations for Comcast Business, Pitcher oversaw the launch of the employee-customer engagement “Solutions for Business” program resulting in improvements in first-call resolution.

Where are the biggest growth areas for women in cable?

There are great opportunities throughout our industry. Many women are moving into exciting, non-traditional female roles such as engineering, direct sales and business services. And women continue to move into leadership roles in nearly every function of our business.

What’s the most important aspect of mentoring?

I think it is three-fold. 1) Active Listening– what are the mentees goals, interests, special talents, limitations 2) Reinforcement- sharing articles, messages, training relevant to the mentee 3) Being Available – committing to meet regularly to discuss progress and successes, or adhoc to address specific issues, crises or concerns.

Best trick for maintaining the personal-professional life balance?

Work-life balance requires complete understanding of what your personal life (kids, spouse, friends, schools, social and athletic activities) needs from you, and not placing pressure on yourself to sign up for more than that. In other words, I don’t set the bar too high for myself. I also don’t measure my personal work-life balance against anyone else’s. For example, if you truly enjoy baking cookies for the class party, do it!  If not, simply offer to bring the plates and napkins instead. Find a comfort zone that works for your life, and stay within it.

Your favorite trick for unwinding?

Watching a movie purely for entertainment and fun.