TVO has named Jeffrey L. Orridge as CEO following the departure of long-time CEO Lisa de Wilde last year.

The appointment comes after the provincial pubcaster undertook a global search, which it said attracted 170 candidates. While the search was underway, Jennifer Hinshelwood led the organization in the role of acting chief operating officer.

Orridge’s resume includes executive posts at the CBC, Canadian Football League (CFL), Canadian Tire and esports and entertainment company Tiidal. At CBC, Orridge served as executive director, sports and general manager, Olympics from 2011-2015. He later took a role as commissioner at the CFL (2015-2017), and later as SVP, community and partnerships, at Canadian Tire (2017-2019) and most recently as chairman of Tiidal (2019-2020).

In previous roles, he served as VP at Mattel (2001-2006) and COO and head of business development at the international non-profit organization Right to Play.

The announcement was made by Ontario’s Education Minister Stephen Lecce and TVO board chair Chris Day on Tuesday, with Orridge set to begin the role on Nov. 30.

TVO celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, and Day says Orridge is the right appointment to lead the broadcaster into the next 50. “His passion for, experience with, and interest in technology, media, and learning – all areas where TVO must excel in the years to come – will ensure we continue to serve learners in exciting new ways, when and wherever they need us,” said Day in a statement.

“From harnessing and leveraging technological advances, to expanding TVO’s products and offerings, to connecting with audiences and communities so we can create social impact together, I look forward to working with the Board and the team at TVO to take our transformation to the next level,” said Orridge.