CBC/Radio-Canada has announced the appointment of former Paramount exec Douglas Smith as Executive Vice-President.

Smith will succeed the retiring Barb Williams in the role, beginning Feb. 2. He recently departed Paramount after four years, where he served as Senior Vice-President of Streaming & Content Licensing/Regional Lead and was instrumental in the Canadian launches of Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

In addition to Paramount, Smith has held roles with ViacomCBS, CBS Studios International, Rogers, and Alliance Atlantis, where he was Executive Vice President from 1997 – 2008.

“Doug Smith is a visionary — a high-impact Canadian media leader with over 30 years of experience,” the public broadcaster said in an announcement. “Recognized as an inclusive and inspirational leader, he combines rigorous business discipline with a strong ability to navigate teams through periods of industry disruption.”

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

“This is a remarkable honour for me,” Smith added. “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.”