Personnel anouncements are literally changing the face of programming at Canada’s two national networks.

cbc has named Jim Byrd, 47, as acting replacement for Ivan Fecan in the role of vice-president, English television networks (see story, p. 1).

And at the CTV Television Network, an executive shuffle has brought a strong marketing influence to bear as Paul Robertson, formerly senior vice-president of sales and marketing, takes on additional responsibilities for programming effective Jan. 1. He will also look after foreign (mostly u.s.) program acquisition, a job previously filled by Pip Wedge, who is retiring after 28 years at ctv.

Robertson’s new title will be senior vice-president, programming and marketing, and he reports to ceo John Cassaday. His promotion does not affect Arthur Weinthal, who continues to oversee development of Canadian shows as vice-president of entertainment programming.

Robertson says responsibilities in the sales and programming areas are quite similar: looking to air strong shows. ‘When we do that, we get the most viewers possible, and when we do that, we get the most sponsorship,’ says Robertson. He adds that looking for big tv events which will interest advertisers in sponsorship opportunities, rather than only straight advertising, is a major thrust at the network.

Other moves at ctv include the promotion of Kathie Shearer to vice-president of sales, reporting to Robertson. Shearer, who moved to ctv following a media buying career in the advertising industry, was made general sales manager last March. Rita Fabian, with ctv since 1986, is ctv’s new Toronto sales manager.