The UK Film Council has appointed Claire Chapman as executivedirector of the UKFC's Los Angeles office.

She takes over for Susan Finlayson-Sitch, who is leaving the post after six years to return tothe UK.

Chapman is a producer whohad recently served as head of production and development for Scottish Screen,working on films including Red Road, Ae Fond Kiss, Festival and The Last King of Scotland.

'I'm absolutelydelighted that Claire will be heading up our office in Los Angeles," said UKFC CEO John Woodward. "This is a key moment in the US film industry's long relationship with theUK and Claire's priorities will include making surethat the new film tax system is promoted and understood in Hollywood. In addition Claire will focus on promoting Britishfilms in the US and building stronger business links between British and US filmbusinesses across the value chain. It goes without saying that we are reallysorry to be losing Susan who has over the last six years built a strongvoice for the UK industry in Los Angeles."