Bell Media Promotes Mike Cosentino to Lead Content & Programming

Bell Media has made several executive appointments and organizational changes to its senior leadership team, including naming Mike Cosentino to the post of president of content and programming.

In this role, Cosentino will be responsible for the acquisition of Bell Media’s English programming across two top-rated conventional networks, its suite of leading specialty channels and its digital properties, including CraveTV. His remit also includes the development, creation and execution of Bell Media’s award-winning original programming. Bell Media’s in-house and independent content divisions are now aligned under Cosentino’s new elevated role.

In addition, Stewart Johnston was appointed as president of media sales, marketing and TSN, following the departure of Stuart Garvie, who returns to GroupM as Canadian CEO. Johnston’s role has expanded to include the leadership and strategic direction of Bell Media’s local and national advertising sales across all platforms, namely conventional and specialty TV, radio, out-of-home and digital. In addition to his responsibilities leading TSN, Johnston’s portfolio also includes Bell Media’s in-house creative agency.

Nanci MacLean, meanwhile, has become the VP and head of Bell Media Studios. MacLean is responsible for all aspects of in-house production for Bell Media’s conventional and specialty channels, including CTV’s Your Morning, The Social, ETalk and The Marilyn Denis Show, among others. In addition to overseeing special productions, MacLean’s responsibilities include Exploration Production. MacLean will work closely with Bell Media President Randy Lennox on developing new content, partnership and business opportunities.

“Congratulations to Stuart Garvie in his new role,” said Lennox. “Stuart’s relentless focus on client service and drive for innovation has positioned our sales team for continued success. We look forward to a continued partnership with him at GroupM.

“With today’s appointments, we’re delighted to recognize the deep wealth of experience and industry respect for Stewart, Mike and Nanci. These three leaders are positioned to drive Bell Media forward in how we collaborate with our partners, create content and deliver results.”