SHE LEADS – with Kelly Hoople

Job Title

Product Director, Cox Business, Cox Communications

What would you tell your younger self?

You have a lot more to offer than you realize!

What was your major in college and how did you get to the position you are in today?

Electrical Engineering and MBA later – I came to Cox, leaving Bell Atlantic, excited about how Cox Business (Fibernet back then) would offer new options for our Hampton Roads community.  That and I didn’t want to climb poles pregnant when Bell unions were threatening to strike…. 🙂

What was your inspiration and what helped you become successful? How do you define success?

I love the work ethic passed along by my family – hard working Pittsburghers – and there have been countless leaders at every level (from tech to GM) in my career path – take something from everyone and give back!

How do you balance your work and personal life? Often times one has more importance, and we’re curious to know how you’ve handled the balance.

I’ve failed at times… perhaps my biggest learning is to forgive myself when that happens and get back on track.  Exercise and eating right are important.  I get really jazzed if I can help any people in my personal or work life at any point.  So I look for those opportunities.

What’s your favorite part of your job and why?

I love hearing when something my team has done makes a difference for our customers and the work they do – whether government, medical, education, retail, hospitality, finance, etc. – that is why we are here.

What is your favorite hobby?

I love road cycling and yoga is definitely my jam!

What’s your favorite ice cream?

Baskin Robbins Chocolate Mousse Royale (I don’t’ think it exists anymore, but my childhood memories of the occasional family outings after church to get a sugar cone with 1 scoop are very dear – it was a real treat we seem to take more for granted these days)

Is there any other information that you think Girl Talk members would benefit from?

Yes – Perhaps this is something women bring to the table more often.  It is certainly true for me.  When I ask the “stupid questions” I often find others had the same questions.  Ask away – our work often needs more clarity and having one’s ego in check allows us to do so more readily and add this value to the business.  Question things!  And don’t be afraid to drive high standards of excellence.