Cary S. Groth

Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the PICTOR Group

“I’d like to extend my gratitude to Cary S. Groth for sharing her impressive career with us. As the CEO and Founder of the PICTOR Group, Cary has a distinguished background of over 40 years in NCAA Division I FBS athletics. She broke new ground as one of the first female Athletics Directors at two major institutions and has made significant contributions through her consulting company, which serves over 100 clients.

Cary’s story is a testament to overcoming challenges in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her achievements—ranging from enhancing student-athlete programs to confronting outdated stereotypes—reflect her dedication and resilience. Balancing a demanding career with personal life has been challenging, but Cary’s commitment to mentorship and her love for activities like polka dancing and fly fishing highlight her vibrant personality.” – Zara Halabu

Please describe your role; responsibilities at that position?

Owner and CEO

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

Educational background BS. ED and MS. ED. My educational background was helpful, however, a business degree would have been more beneficial

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

40 years in the NCAA Division I FBS athletics; 20 years as Athletics Director at 2 FBS institutions.
Milestones were:
1. Successful Collegiate Tennis Coaching
2. Successful Administrative Positions
3. Athletics Director at 2 FBS institutions (first female to do this)
4. Started a Sports Management program at Nevada
Founded intercollegiate athletics consulting company serving over 100 clients

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in sports business, & how have you overcome them?

1. Old fashioned views that women don’t understand sports if they haven’t played football
2. Some donors that feel that they know more about sports, particularly men. I have overcome those by producing results: graduation rates, winning programs (top 10 in football at both schools and top 16 in men’s and women’s basketball)

Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work -life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

I didn’t do this very well. Athletics is more of a lifestyle and you have to get used to the 7-day work weeks and long hours.

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details?

Very important to have male and female role models and to mentor young people in the business. That’s a must! Role models for me have been coaches and successful professionals with impeccable character

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports industry?

No. I think that it is much better today than it was. I was the 3rd woman to lead a NCAA DI FBS athletics program and when I retired 20 years later there were only 6. Men who underperform get rehired, women do not… Search companies need to broaden their pool of qualified women…they are out there

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most? What parts do you find the most challenging?

Working with student athletes and coaches—giving them the tools and the confidence to excel.

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

Get yourself good mentors that will help you. Keep in touch with them. Learn from them. Ask questions

Any fun facts you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, # of kids, pet peeves, etc. The more the merrier!!

I grew up in a great family who taught me great values. They also taught me how to polka and play the organ! I love dogs, fly fishing and positive people. I hate politics and what it has done to our country. Favorite food is PBJ and pizza! 🙂