MacCallum left CNN after the CNN+ streaming service she helped develop was scrapped. But in January she returned in this new role, and within weeks, her team was developing mobile-first video, generative AI and a new subscription product. Analytical yet intuitive, logical but creative, MacCallum is leading CNN into a new era by setting ambitious goals designed to drive engagement.
“Over the past 20 years, corporate America has made substantial progress toward gender equity in leadership ranks. But I still find myself in meetings sometimes with all men and am struck by how much progress we still need to make.”
What benefits should companies consider offering to support women advancement and to make the workplace more equitable? I feel passionately about parental leave. When I was at the “New York Times,” I partnered with three other women and made a case to leadership that the company should offer better parental leave benefits to all parents. We anchored the case in business impact; research has proven that strong parental leave also benefits the company’s bottom line, not just the well-being of the employee and child.
What’s a skill you’re currently working on? (work-related or non-work-related) I’m working on patience. I have a big job, but also a lot going on in my personal life, from a sick parent to three young kids. I aspire to have the ability to be calm and collected through rough waters, from a three-year old’s regular tantrums, to aging parents refusing the help that they need, to critical election-related work not going exactly as planned. I always at least aspire to be patient and kind through it all.