Paul Higginson has been promoted to senior vice president of Europe Theatrical at Fox International, filling the post that will be left by the Universal-bound Christian Grass.

Todd Huntley has been promoted to vice president of Europe Theatrical. Both promotions take effect immediately.

Higginson will remain in London at Fox's European regional office, overseeing the theatrical distribution, sales and marketing operations for all films in Europe.

Upcoming releases Hitman from Luc Besson, Walden Media's fantasy adventure The Dark Is Rising, UA's war drama Lions For Lambs, and holiday releases Alvin And The Chipmunks and Alien Vs Predator 2.

Higginson will report to Fox International co-presidents Paul Hanneman and Tomas Jegeus.

Huntley will take on an expanded commercial role in the European Theatrical Office and will report to Higginson.

'Paul has played a key role in the growth and success of Fox-Europe since its inception,' Hanneman and Jegeus said.

'Throughout his tenure he has used his talents and expertise to develop the region into one of the strongest business operations in the industry. We are thrilled that he will be taking on this expanded leadership role.

'Todd has supervised the European marketing campaigns for such hits as Star Wars: Episode III, X-Men: The Last Stand, Borat, Night At The Museum, Little Miss Sunshine and, most recently, The Simpsons Movie, Die Hard 4.0 and Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer.

Higginson joined Fox in 1980 and currently serves as senior vice president of finance and business affairs.

Huntley has been vice president of marketing for Fox in Europe since 2002. Prior to working at Fox, Huntley held various marketing management positions with Coca Cola-Great Britain, Gateway Computers, Cereal Partners Worldwide, and General Mills.