Cynthia Kennedy to step down from distribution VP role at Canada’s Quebecor

Veteran exec Cynthia Kennedy is leaving her role as VP of distribution at Montreal-based Quebecor.

Cynthia Kennedy

Amsterdam-based Kennedy joined the company in April 2022, as it was merging the distribution operations of Incendo and Quebecor Content, and oversaw distribution strategies and activities for it and its subsidiaries in Canada and worldwide.

“My deepest gratitude goes to [Quebecor Content VP] Yann Paquet for entrusting me with this wonderful challenge, and for his leadership and guidance. I’m also very confident about the future distribution activities of the group, knowing that they are in the capable hands of [VP of studios and international development at Quebecor-owned MELS] Jean-Philippe Normandeau, [Quebecor Content’s director of variety format acquisitions and international development] Sylvie Langlois, and [Quebecor Content’s senior director of content acquisitions, licensing and original film] Louis Pearson,” said Kennedy in a LinkedIn post.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the past two years in a position that was very much a dream come true. Content from Quebec is truly world-class, and it was a privilege to represent and place these superb projects with international partners – and I know the best is yet to come.”

Before joining Quebecor, Kennedy was head of sales at Netherlands-based Vincent TV. She was also previously senior VP of licensing at Talpa Global and a sales director at Keshet International.

During her career, she has handled international sales of entertainment formats such as The Voice and Dancing with the Stars and scripted series such as Prisoners of War, False Flag and The Office.

Kennedy’s next moves have not yet been revealed. She is heading to upcoming markets including next week’s London Screenings and Series Mania as an independent.

“After working for broadcasters and producers in the US, the UK, Israel and the Netherlands, working for Quebecor felt like coming home. It’s going to be hard to find a challenge that will even come close – but perhaps someone in my network will surprise me,” said Kennedy.