Knowledge Network, B.C.’s public educational broadcaster, has hired Justin Young as director of brand and audience engagement.

Young steps into the role effective Nov. 27, and will lead the broadcaster’s strategy to “strengthen brand awareness, grow and diversify viewership” for its linear and streaming platforms, according to a news release.

He succeeds former director of brand Aaron Woodley, who left the network in June. Woodley has held a post at Pattison Media since July as a creative writer.

Young brings more than 25 years of experience in marketing and audience engagement, previously holding posts at Radar DDB and Village&Co. He has also worked on projects with the David Suzuki Foundation and Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, among others.

Knowledge Network’s upcoming originals include the docuseries Wildfire (Optic Nerve Films), as well as feature documentaries Clan of the Painted Lady (Silo Entertainment) and Treasure of the Rice Terraces (Aimer Films).

“Justin’s expertise in audience engagement and brand strategy will enable us to strengthen our relationship with existing viewers and help bring Knowledge’s unique free and commercial free public service to diverse new audiences throughout B.C. and across Canada,” said Michelle van Beusekom, president and CEO of Knowledge Network, in a statement.

Added Young: “I look forward to applying my passion and extensive expertise in audience engagement to leverage today’s exciting challenges and opportunities, and bring B.C.’s beloved public broadcaster/streamer to new generations of viewers.”

Image courtesy of Knowledge Network