With its $2.65 billion acquisition of Shaw Media now complete, Corus Entertainment today unveiled a new corporate logo and a revamped senior leadership team comprised of executives from the two companies.
The transaction, which received CRTC approval last week, more than doubles Corus’ size, with an asset portfolio that includes 45 specialty TV services spanning key verticals such as women, kids, family and general entertainment; 15 conventional channels and 39 radio stations.
The company also boasts a global content business and a growing portfolio of digital assets.
Corus has also replaced its whimsical logo with a simpler nameplate that features its name in a rounded typeface comprised of black letters with a green letter “O.” President and CEO Doug Murphy said the logo was reflective of the “bigger, bolder combined company and its promising future.”
Barbara Williams has been named executive vice-president and chief operating officer for the revamped company, overseeing all domestic and internal program acquisitions and scheduling for its TV operations, as well as audience growth and engagement across its radio, Nelvana and digital business units.
The company said Williams, who was previously EVP broadcasting and president of Shaw Media, would also play a “central role” in the development of the company’s growth strategies, as well as its ongoing transformation into “a media and content powerhouse.”
Shaw Media’s former SVP of sales Greg McLelland becomes EVP and chief revenue officer, responsible for all domestic revenue components including TV, radio, national and local sales, branded content, digital and distribution.
He will also lead the company’s client insights research team, as well as sales support and revenue management, with what the company described as a “concerted focus” on next-generation advertising and analytics.
Colin Bohm, most recent head of the company’s kids division, takes on a new role as EVP, international development and corporate strategy, where he will oversee the company’s strategic priorities in owning and controlling more content; engaging audiences and expanding into adjacent markets. He is also charged with developing global strategic partnership and managing the company’s mergers and acquisitions.
Cheryl Fullerton becomes EVP, people and communications, a role the company said encompassed the “people elements” of its business strategy, through attracting, developing, engaging and rewarding outstanding talent. Her purview also includes the communications department led by VP of communications Dervla Kelly.
Kathleen McNair has been named EVP, special advisor to the CEO and chief integration officer, a role in which she will continue to support the company’s integration activities.
The company also announced Christine Shipton would exit her current role as chief content officer, though she will stay with the company over the next few months to ensure a smooth transition of people, processes and teams.
The rest of the senior management team includes Shawn Kelly, EVP of technology; Tom Peddie, EVP and chief financial officer; and Gary Maavara, EVP and general counsel.
