Shaw Media appoints Barbara Williams president; also becomes VP of broadcasting

TORONTO – Barbara Williams is the new president of Shaw Media.

The multimedia giant announced Tuesday that Williams, who was previously senior vice president of content, had been appointed to the role.

She will also become executive vice president of broadcasting.

As president, Williams will oversee Global Television and Shaw Media’s portfolio of 19 specialty networks, including HGTV Canada, Food Network Canada and History.

Paul Robertson, who had been president of Shaw Media since 2010, died of pancreatic cancer earlier this month.

Williams has more than 25 years of experience in the media industry, including roles at Canwest Broadcasting and Alliance Atlantis.

While senior vice president of content at Shaw, Williams increased the number of Top 10 shows on Global and launched new specialty channels including H2, Lifetime and FYI.

“Over the past four years we have had the opportunity of working extensively with Barb,” said Brad Shaw, chief executive officer of Shaw Communications in a press relase.

“She is an exceptional leader and well-respected industry executive. Coupled with her extensive list of accomplishments and experience, she is the ideal candidate to lead our media business as we transition to become Canada’s leading network and content company.”

The company also said she will be expected to reinforce Shaw Media as a leading broadcaster while adapting to the changing media environment.