CBC names Paramount alum Doug Smith exec VP after Barb Williams retires

Canadian public broadcaster the CBC has named former Paramount exec Doug Smith as its executive VP.

Doug Smith

Smith, who left his Toronto-based role as Paramount’s senior VP of streaming and content licensing last year, takes over the role from Barb Williams, whose retirement was announced last autumn.

In his new capacity, Smith will have oversight of the English-language programming operations of the CBC, one of the top roles in Canadian broadcasting. He starts the job on February 2.

“Doug has an extensive track record in the media industry and a deep understanding of the Canadian ecosystem and the audiences we serve,” said CBC/Radio-Canada’s president and CEO Marie-Philippe Bouchard.

“We share the ambition to be an indispensable public service for Canadians – to be here for Canada with content that engages, unites and reflects our unique identity and values, while supporting and contributing to the success of Canada’s media ecosystem. Doug brings a unique combination of experience and perspectives that will add value to CBC/Radio-Canada and will enable us to achieve those goals.”

Smith added: “This is a remarkable honour for me. I have deep respect for the role the national public broadcaster plays in Canada. The CBC matters because it helps Canadians understand one another, stay informed and see themselves reflected in the country we are building together. The work ahead is important to strengthen trust, cultural connection and our democracy. I am proud to have the opportunity to join such a skilled and passionate team, and to contribute to that responsibility.”