Bell confirms new entertainment chief

Canada’s Bell Media has confirmed the appointment of Randy Lennox a day after news broke CTV programming chief Phil King had left the broadcaster.

Lennox, who most recently was CEO and president of Universal Music Canada, has been named president, entertainment production and broadcasting.

He will report directly to Bell president Mary Ann Turcke and become a member of the firm’s senior leadership team.

Yesterday it emerged King – who was president of CTV, entertainment and sports – had been jettisoned from the business, along with local TV chief Chris Gordon, senior VP Adam Ashton and Quebec TV and radio boss Charles Benoît.

Lennox was tipped at the time to replace King, and Bell has now confirmed the hire.

Lennox has worked in the entertainment industry for more than 25 years and will now oversee all English- and French-language radio and television channels and their associated digital assets.

“Randy joins us at a pivotal time as the media industry experiences significant change,” said Turcke. “He brings to Bell Media an unparalleled record of success, a deep understanding of the complexities of the entertainment industry, and a passion for creative multimedia content.

“We look forward to his expertise in creating new revenue opportunities in television, radio and digital, including building strategic alliances and special, tent-pole events for our key brands.”

“Bell Media and Universal Music are the leading companies in their respective industries, so I am delighted to take on this new challenge,” said Lennox. “I look forward to working with Mary Ann and the Bell Media team as we enhance our leadership position while growing new strategic opportunities for the business.”