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Barbara Williams to retire after an extraordinary 40-year career in Canadian media

After a celebrated career in Canadian media, Barb Williams has announced her retirement from CBC. Williams joined CBC/Radio-Canada as Executive Vice-President of English Services in 2019. 

Over her six year tenure at the national public broadcaster, Williams reimagined the way the CBC could serve existing audiences and welcome new ones, all while navigating the complexities of a global pandemic and the relentless pace of digital transformation. 

In the words of CBC/Radio-Canada President and CEO, Marie-Phillipe Bouchard: “The CBC we know today was born out of Barb’s vision to make our English Services platform-agnostic, a transformation that repositioned how Canadians consume CBC’s content. Barb’s dedication, integrity, and passion for public broadcasting has propelled CBC forward. Her presence will undoubtedly be missed by all who had the pleasure of working with her. I am incredibly grateful for her immense contribution.”

Williams’ supportive and empowering leadership style, her commitment to audience, and her passion for Canadian content and creators made a significant difference.

She has consistently fostered a collaborative environment and inspired countless individuals, something she will continue to do early into the new calendar year to ensure a smooth transition for her successor. That search will begin shortly.

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