photo by steed media service

Fania N. Washington is the first to admit that challenges don’t dissuade her from confronting situations head-on. As one of the vice presidents of employment counsel for MTV Networks, Washington’s work traverses all facets of the business. She is responsible for MTV Networks’ 135 channel portfolio, including VH1, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon.

“Sometimes it takes business sense, [more] than legal sense to support my clients and help them do what they’re trying or need to do,” Washington says. She credits her team for helping create an environment where everyone thrives. “MTV is a group of special, dynamic and creative people. It’s exciting to be a part of that, and I offer my support in every way that I can.”

On any given day, that support includes providing legal advice on issues regarding MTV employees, managing employment-related litigation, and working with the company’s various television productions. Then there’s the arduous work-related travel (which looks more like working vacations), for events like the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards, which was held recently in Las Vegas.

“My responsibilities are both what one would expect from an employment attorney as well as a function that’s truly unique to my group and MTV Networks,” she shares.

Since it premiered in August 1981, MTV has revolutionized the music industry. Today, MTV broadcasts a variety of pop culture and reality television shows in over 160 countries. So, what’s next professionally for Washington? “I want to be challenged and continue to grow,” she says. “I think there’s nothing MTV can’t do.” –tarin d. harris

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