Transcontinental hires social media and mobile strategists

Transcontinental Media, the publisher of magazines Canadian Living, The Hockey News and Elle Canada, among others, has announed several staff promotions along with two new hires: Julie Benoît as social media stategist and Michele Perras as mobile strategist.

The Wire Report notes that “Perras previously worked as director of the non-profit Mobile Experience Innovation Centre, which she founded,” and “Benoît previously worked at Cirque du Soleil, where she was responsible for development, strategy and positioning on social media platforms and online.”

Transcon boasts over 40 magazines, including Canadian Living, Coup de pouce, Elle Canada, Elle Québec, Style at Home, Homemakers, Madame, Good Times and The Hockey News.

Should we be expecting more attention on mobile and tablet publishing? In September, The Hockey News app reached its millionth download. It also has apps for Canadian Living and Elle.

Masthead Magazine reports that “Ralph Van Collie, formerly senior manager, new initiatives and electronic commerce is now senior manager, national sites and electronic commerce at Transcontinental Media. In his new duties, Van Collie will supervise the management of consumer sites and develop new digital products aimed at women.” In addition, “Former vice president, digital media Dominique Sébastien-Forest has been appointed vice president, national digital solutions. Sébastien-Forest will be responsible for national sales, advertising operations, national business development, national sites, and cross-platform products such as mobile, social media and video.”