TORONTO — SiriusXM Canada announced today the appointment of Michelle Mearns (above) as vice-president of programming and operations.
In this role, she reports to CEO Mark Redmond and “will be responsible for the development and production of all Canadian programming as well as technical operations,” reads a press release announcing her hiring.
“Michelle is a respected leader in the industry and is going to bring an experienced and fresh perspective to our business,” Redmond said in the release. “We’re very excited to welcome her to the team to lead the charge as our content offering continues to grow and evolve.”
Mearns has over 20 years of experience in streaming, podcasts, digital marketing and partnership development in music and entertainment, according to the press release.
She is joining SiriusXM Canada from Apple Canada, “where she led strategic partnerships, content marketing and played a significant role in the launch of Apple Music in Canada. She has developed growth initiatives, strategy and content marketing for all Apple Services brands, including Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Books and Apple Podcasts,” the release says.
Before working at Apple, Mearns led marketing and communications activity at Twitter Canada and Facebook Canada. She also previously worked as the marketing and communications lead for CBC Music, and has worked on promoting artists as part of Universal Music Canada’s Island/Def Jam division.
“After honing my experience across music and entertainment, I’m excited for the opportunity to develop the Canadian programming strategy for SiriusXM,” Mearns said in the release.
“The company has an inspiring vision for the future, a strong business model and an established management team that I’m thrilled to join.”
Mearns’ appointment comes after John Lewis, senior vice-president of programming and operations, decided to retire after 17 years with SiriusXM Canada, the release explains.
“John was an integral part of the launch and success of this business and brought his passion, leadership and drive to every stage of SiriusXM’s evolution,” Redmond said. “A revered member of the broadcast industry, we wish him the absolute best in his retirement.”
Photo provided by SiriusXM Canada.
