The Banff World Media Festival (BANFF) announced that Sean Cohan, President of Bell Media, has been appointed Chair of BANFF’s Board of Directors. Cohan steps into the role following the tenure of Kevin Beggs, Lionsgate Television Group Chair & Chief Creative Officer, who served as Chair of the Board for three years. Beggs will continue to serve on the Board, ensuring his valuable experience remains an asset to the organization.
Located in Banff, Alberta, Canada, BANFF is a premium marketplace and conference, an intimate space where unparalleled access, creative inspiration, and expert insight combine to launch fresh content and new business strategies. With more than 45 years of history, the festival has grown into a must-attend annual event where media moguls, producers, creatives, and industry stakeholders along with broadcasters and digital media companies tackle issues and trends, forge relationships, and nurture partnerships in one of the world’s most stunning landscapes.
Cohan highlighted the event's reputation and importance for the industry: “I am honored to assume the Board Chair position at BANFF. With a reputation as a robust event at the forefront of the conversations that matter most in our global industry, the Festival is primed for growth. I look forward to collaborating with the team and continuing the work of the incomparable Kevin Beggs to expand BANFF’s global impact while showcasing the many opportunities Canadian companies, organizations, and creatives bring to our industry," he stated.
Meanwhile, BANFF’s Executive Director, Jenn Kuzmyk, understands the appointment as a step forward for the organization, paving the way for a new era: “We’re delighted to welcome Sean as the new Chair to guide BANFF into its next chapter. As the media landscape continues to evolve, Sean’s forward-thinking vision and global perspective will be invaluable in shaping the future of the festival and fostering innovation across the industry. We’re deeply grateful for Kevin’s incredible contribution over the last few years as Chair. His dedication has elevated the festival to new heights, strengthening its position as a premier global media event. We’re so pleased to have Kevin remain on board, continuing to lend his expertise," added.
Appointed President of Bell Media, Canada’s leading media and entertainment company, in 2023, Cohan is responsible for Bell Media’s globally unique portfolio of premium video, audio, out-of-home advertising, and digital media. These include Canada’s #1 broadcast network (CTV), its leading sports properties (TSN & RDS), #1 national and local news (CTV News), the largest Canadian-owned video streaming service (Crave), industry-leading out-of-home advertising player (Astral), and audio platforms (iHeartRadio).
Cohan has spent decades in media and consumer businesses, including a 15-year tenure at A+E Networks, ultimately in the role of President, International and Digital Media. At A+E, Cohan’s teams were credited with driving global content, digital, and commercial transformation, and rapid growth. Most recently, Cohan was Chief Growth Officer & President at Nielsen, a global measurement and data analytics giant. Cohan managed strategy, corporate development, partnerships, and international efforts and teams, and had a leadership role in its successful 2022 take-private transaction.
A purpose-driven leader, Cohan has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Harvard University, an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and holds several Board positions, including 8 years on the Banff World Media Festival Board of Directors. Cohan has twice been named to Savoy Magazine’s Influential Black Executives in Corporate America list and its Most Influential Corporate Directors list.