#WomensHistoryMonth at Cox Enterprises: Get to Know Emily Chambers

In celebration of Women's History Month, female leaders from across Cox Enterprises are sharing insights from their experience throughout the month of March. Emily Chambers is Cox Media Group’s group vice president of human resources.

What women inspire you and why?

I am always in awe of women who know who they are. A woman with enough confidence in herself and her abilities that she can interact with anyone and make them feel comfortable without needing to prove position or title. My mother was my greatest role model. She taught me to believe in myself and in my dreams. She also supported me as I worked to make those dreams a reality.

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

The perception of a key decision maker can be the most significant barrier. That is why a woman trying to obtain a leadership role needs to know how to discover the perceptions and address them.

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

The opportunities are abundant. The challenge for anyone set on growing their career is to keep their skillset current and to stay in touch with the state of the business. They also need to take risks and be willing to make course corrections when needed.

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

The best decision I continue to make is to never stop learning and to be willing to take on new challenges. There really isn’t a worst decision. Every decision is an experience that I learn from. If it is a positive experience, repeat and reinforce. If the outcome is negative, learn from it and move on.

What is your perspective on work/life balance?

Work/life balance is necessary for a person to be their most effective. However, I believe each person needs to identify for themselves what balance is and to make sure they have the right support systems in their life to maintain that balance.

What career advice do you have for others?

Know the business you are supporting. Learn both the strategic and tactical aspects of your role so that you can have a holistic view. Make sure the culture is a fit for you being able to be your best self while making the business successful.

About Cox Enterprises
Cox Enterprises is a leading communications, media and automotive services company. With revenues exceeding $20 billion and approximately 60,000 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 and Manheim. Through Cox Automotive, the company's international operations stretch across Asia, Australia, Europe and Latin America. To learn more about Cox's commitment to people, sustainability and our communities, please visit CoxCSRReport.com.