Alma Mater: James Madison University
A quote or motto you live by: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt.
It’s been 10 years since Painter moved to Atlanta to establish Cox Communication’s employee experience, employee engagement and organization design practices, and the company is still reaping the benefits today. Just listen to Charter executives discussing the pending merger with Cox and they’ll inevitably point to the strong, customer service-oriented culture the operator has built. Painter is one of the key architects. She helped the Cox team navigate a restructuring at the end of 2024 that saw several long-time execs take buyouts, and she’s established herself as a trusted guide as the company maneuvers the Charter transaction.
Impact Factor: Painter’s influence is felt well beyond Cox Communications. She served as industry HR organization C2HR’s president in 2024 and is active on the board. She’s an at-large director for The WICT Network, a NAMIC Next Generation Leader, an Emma Bowen Foundation board member—and the type of leader who never hesitates to lend a hand.
How do you amplify the voices of others around you? I intentionally use my platforms to share others’ contributions or unique experiences. In my workspaces, I actively work to identify and amplify the voices of the “unheard,” teammates who may not have the same level of access I have in certain places and I try to bridge that for them.
If you weren’t in this business, what career might you have pursued? I would have been a college professor or a Broadway star.
If your colleagues had to describe you in three words, what would they say: Genuine, thoughtful, grounded.
How do you amplify the voices of others around you? I intentionally use my platforms to share others’ contributions or unique experiences. In my workspaces, I actively work to identify and amplify the voices of the “unheard,” teammates who may not have the same level of access I have in certain places and I try to bridge that for them.
Where do you find energy and inspiration outside the office? I find so much energy in learning new things and continuous personal development. I am inspired by people that look for ways to make the world a little better.