#WomensHistoryMonth at Cox Enterprises: Get to Know Janice Roberts

In celebration of Women's History Month, female leaders from across Cox Enterprises are sharing insights from their experience throughout the month of March. Janice Roberts is Cox Communications' senior vice president of field services. 

What women inspire you and why?

I have been inspired by many women over the years, but I would have to say that my mother is at the top of list. She has imparted so much wisdom and taught me about excellence, hard work and perseverance. She dispatches the best advice even in her golden years, and I continue to be inspired by her and what she was able to achieve and fashion out of meager means.

What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?

As women, we do not always tap into a network or support system to help us navigate our careers. As a result, we may not understand how to find or be considered for leadership roles. I have benefited from a number of female leaders who have devoted time to building networks and coaching and mentoring me. I try to do the same to help other women overcome the barrier.

What will be the biggest challenge and opportunity for the generation of women that follow you?

The biggest challenge for women will be to remain inspired and motivated in a fast changing world and to take time for personal development. New opportunities will continue to emerge, and I believe that women will be instrumental in creating new business models and leading businesses and large organizations to create value.

What are the best and worst decisions you've ever made?

The best career decision I made was to pursue a career in the Communications industry and in particular in technology. At the time that I joined the industry, women in engineering was far from the norm. Over the years, I have worked through a number of transformations with some amazing teams and continue to be excited about the industry and the future. I have made a number of decisions that could be considered “not the best” decisions for particular situations. But in the end, each of them helped me grow. I am grateful that I am able to share my learnings from those decisions with others through my mentoring and coaching.

What is your perspective on work/life balance?

I believe that “work/life balance” is personal and unique for everyone. Each day we have an opportunity to prioritize what is important to us from a holistic point of view. I have found it is possible to maintain positive, healthy relationships to create positive experiences and memories, all while successfully pursuing my career goals. 

About Cox Enterprises: 
Cox Enterprises is a leading communications, media and automotive services company. With revenues of $18 billion and approximately 55,000 employees, the company's major operating subsidiaries include Cox Communications (cable television distribution, high-speed Internet access, telephone, home security and automation, commercial telecommunications and advertising solutions); Cox Automotive (automotive-related auctions, financial services, media and software solutions); and Cox Media Group (television and radio stations, digital media, newspapers and advertising sales rep firms). The company's major national brands include Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, Savings.com and Valpak. To learn more about Cox's commitment to people, sustainability and our communities, please visit CoxCSRReport.com.