REVOLVING DOOR:
Steve Ladurantaye has been re-assigned from the role of managing editor of CBC’s The National. A memo to staff from Editor in Chief Jennifer McGuire references Ladurantaye’s involvement in a Twitter conversation supporting a so-called “cultural appropriation prize” for Canadian literature that sparked furore on the internet. Ladurantaye has been reassigned to a digital strategy role in Content Experience. McGuire writes: “In the fall, we will meet with Steve to re-assess his connection to The National going forward…Jonathan Whitten, Michael Gruzuk, Caroline Harvey and myself, as well as the various working groups, will lead the work around re-imagining the program.”
Ex-Alouette Davis Sanchez has a new role as a TSN 690 (CKGM-AM) Montreal game analyst. Sanchez replaces former Als offensive-lineman Paul Lambert. In addition to running a Greater Vancouver facilities services company in retirement, Sanchez took broadcasting courses for three consecutive semesters at the B.C. Institute of Technology (BCIT).
Stephanie Irvine has been promoted to Network Managing Editor for Global News. Irvine joined Global Calgary as a producer in 2013 and then Global Toronto in June 2016, after stints as an anchor, reporter, and producer at 570 News (CKGL-AM) Kitchener and 660 News (CFFR-AM) Calgary.
Marie Grégoire will host her own show on ICI Radio-Canada Première starting July 7. The former Quebec politician will host the 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. afternoon show, replacing Catherine Lachaussée. Gregoire is already known for her appearances on Les ex on ICI RDI and Première hour with Claude Bernatchez.
Jack Roe’s 35-year run as CBC Radio’s Peterborough correspondent has come to an end with the elimination of both Roe and Kingston correspondent JC Kenny’s regional reports on Ontario Morning. Roe remains a weekend anchor with 680 News (CFTR-AM) Toronto.
Barry Taylor has taken over music director duties at CFOX-FM Vancouver on a one-year term. Brittany Van Hemert is on maternity leave. Taylor was part of restructuring at 96.9 Jackfm (CJAX-FM) Vancouver last fall.
Melanie Martin has joined Corus Radio Barrie as the new co-host of BIG (CIQB-FM) Mornings (with Kris Bawden). Martin previously co-hosted The JJ and Melanie Morning Show on Flow 93.5 (CFXJ-FM) Toronto for 10 years and was an integral part of the popular Scott Fox, Melanie and Dave show on Z103.5 (CIDC-FM) Toronto.
Echo Smith is leaving The Jewel 98.5 (CJWL-FM) Ottawa promotions department after five years. Her last day is June 2.
Heather Backman has a new gig as a part-time swing announcer at The Beat 92.5 (CKBE-FM) Montreal after being laid off at CHOM-AM earlier this year. Backman will be doing summer relief.
Dr. Nino Japaridze has joined Edison Research in the newly-created VP of Public Affairs Research position. Based in Washington, DC, Nino brings over 20 years of public affairs and international research experience, most recently as VP of Public Affairs at Ipsos North America.