BBC Worldwide Canada has appointed ex-eOne executive Michael Smith as SVP TV sales, co-productions and digital distribution, effective immediately.

Reporting to BBC Worldwide North America EVP sales and co-productions Matt Forde, Smith will oversee developing and delivering a five-year growth plan for the Canadian market. That includes building relationships with existing network and premium cable clients and implementing the company’s digital syndication, VOD and DTO strategy.

“Michael’s wealth of experience working across both film and television fits perfectly with our ambitions to build strong creative relationships with producers, broadcasters and digital services in Canada,” said Forde in a statement.

Smith was previously VP TV and digital sales at eOne. Prior to working at eOne, he was director of corporate partnerships for the Toronto Argonauts Football Club, and exec director at joint Lionsgate/TVA venture JV Media, where he handle feature film and TV sales for PPV, VOD, pay and free TV windows.