CBS Studios International Makes Canadian Hire

LOS ANGELES/TORONTO: Doug Smith is to take on the role of VP and general sales manager for CBS Studios International in Canada, succeeding 25-year CBS veteran Bruce Swanson.

Smith will be based in the Toronto office, and will lead the division’s sales and distribution activities across all platforms throughout Canada. Smith is taking over from Swanson, who announced his intention to retire after a 25-year tenure. Prior to joining CBS Studios International, Smith ran his own consultancy company, advising Canadian media companies such Cineplex Entertainment, Corus Entertainment and Rogers Communications, among others.

"Bruce is a legendary Canadian distribution executive who has been an invaluable asset to our company for over 25 years," said Armando Nuñez, the president of CBS Studios International, to whom Smith will report. "His integrity and dedication over the years to clients as well as colleagues is second to none and he has left a successful and indelible mark on our company. With a career spanning four decades, he has witnessed the continuing transformation of the business from traditional broadcast to the digital world we live in today. Throughout it all he has maintained his passion and enthusiasm for television and its business. We wish him a happy and well-deserved retirement. He will be greatly missed but always remembered."

Nuñez continued: "We are fortunate and thrilled to find an executive the caliber of Doug Smith to succeed Bruce in Canada. His broad range of experience and successful sales track record will be instrumental in driving revenues and continuing to strengthen our brand in Canada. Doug’s passion and expertise will be an invaluable addition to our Canadian business as well as our international management/sales team."