Corus to Restructure Original Content Leadership

Corus Entertainment is restructuring its original content team, with Rachel Nelson appointed as VP of original programming and head of Corus Studios and Mellany Welsh becoming VP and head of Nelvana.

Nelson has a long track record of overseeing development and production of both scripted and unscripted programming for Corus. Now, Nelson will lead all commissions with the independent production community and work to build out Corus’ slate of original drama, lifestyle, factual and reality programs. She will also oversee the continued growth of Corus Studios.

Welsh has years of experience in leading Nelvana’s licensing and merchandising business, partnering with children’s brands to bring popular characters to the screen and maximize related revenues. In the expanded role, Welsh will now oversee all aspects of Corus’s children’s animation and live-action studio, including book publisher Kids Can Press.

Lisa Godfrey, senior VP of original programming and Corus Studios, is stepping down from the role as of January 31. During her 24-year tenure with the company, Godfrey spearheaded Canadian originals and helped successfully grow the Corus Studios distribution business. Following her departure, the role will be eliminated.

Pam Westman will be retiring from her role as president of Nelvana as of January 31. During her five years as president, Westman played a key role in expanding the global licensing and sales of Nelvana’s portfolio and striking major partnerships with international children’s brands.

Jeff Norton, head of Waterside Studios, is also leaving the company. Corus will engage both Westman and Norton in a consulting capacity for several months following their departure to support the transition.

Troy Reeb, executive VP for networks and content, commented: “Amid ongoing changes in the competitive landscape for Canadian programming and building upon many successful years of growing our slate of Corus original content, the changes announced today support our focus on prioritizing the highest return on investment for our own networks as well as international sales.

“Corus has fostered incredible, creative talent with a legacy of producing great Canadian shows, and I’m confident that legacy will continue to grow under the leadership of Rachel and Mellany.”