M edia company Sphere has hired veteran entertainment lawyer Sébastien Pigeon to expand its corporate growth and international distribution work.

Based in Montreal, Pigeon holds the title of EVP and chief legal and television distribution officer. He has been tasked with managing Sphere’s legal and business affairs, as well as the oversight of its television distribution operations.

As part of his responsibilities, Pigeon will develop and execute a distribution strategy toward further international reach, as well as look at potential growth for the company through acquisitions.

Pigeon has more than two decades of experience in entertainment law, beginning as legal counsel for Montreal prodco Zone3, before moving to work in intellectual property at law firm Ogilvy Renault (now part of Norton Rose Group). His most recent role was executive producer, general manager and VP, legal affairs, at Aetios Productions.

Sphere president and CEO Bruno Dubé said the Quebec and Ontario-based company is “in growth mode” in a statement, adding that Pigeon possesses the expertise required for “an ambitious acquisition plan.”

The company has completed a raft of acquisitions over the last few years, including Sienna Films, BGM, MK2 | Mile End, Oasis Animation, and Sardine Productions. The assets portfolio was rebranded under the Sphere name in 2022 within three core umbrellas: Sphere Media, Sphere Animation, and Sphere Films.

Image courtesy of Sphere