Mauricio Duran has been appointed vice president of distributionand marketing for Latin America for Universal Pictures International.

Duran will oversee the theatrical marketing and distributionstrategies, supervising all aspects of business for the region, including thereview of potential acquisitions. He will oversee all new business initiativesand develop Universal's future distribution plan for the region.

Duran arrives from Buena Vista Columbia Tri-Star Films de Mexicowhere he spent two decades and most recently as associate general manager andsales director. He will report to Duncan Clark, executive vice president ofinternational distribution.

"Mauricio is one of the smartest young executives in thebusiness and it is a pleasure to welcome him into the Universal family,"Clark said. "His experience and background make him the perfect person tolead our effort in this all-important part of the world."

"Latin America is a very dynamic and fast growingmarket," Duran said. "I am very excited with my new responsibilitiesand proud of representing Universal Pictures in a region of such tremendousopportunities."