CTHRA Names Charter's Abby Pfeiffer President

The Cable and Telecommunications Human Resources Association (CTHRA) has named Charter Communications executive Abby Pfeiffer as its new president.

Pfeiffer, currently senior vice president of human resources for Charter, served on CTHRA’s board for four years prior to her appointment, according to the organization.

“With decades of industry experience and a heartfelt passion for CTHRA’s mission, Abby Pfeiffer brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the role of president. We look forward to her leadership as we embrace the ever-changing dynamics of our industry,” said Pamela Williams, CAE, CTHRA’s executive director.

Joining Pfeiffer on CTHRA’s executive committee are vice president Eric Hawkins, executive vice president of human resources management for Discovery Communications; secretary Seth Feit, chief learning officer for Time Warner Cable; treasurer Tom Tooker, vice president of HR for A+E Networks; and at-large members Pam Hagan, corporate vice president of HR for Bright House Networks, and Sheryl Anderson, executive vice president of HR and administration for Starz.

CTHRA also announced that Cox Communications vice president of talent management Michele Parks has joined its board of directors.

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.