HIGGINSON ON THE RISE AT FOX INTERNATIONAL

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. Huntley will take on an expanded commercial role in the European theatrical office.

MEISSNER FINDS MEMENTO

Former Celluloid Dreams sales executive Tanja Meissner has joined Paris-based producer/distributor Memento Films. Meissner will act as head of world sales and acquisitions for the company. She attended Venice for Memento and will also attend Toronto. Prior to joining Celluloid Dreams in 2000, Meissner was a collaborator with Wieland Speck at the Berlinale Panorama section.

SCHOETTLE STEPS DOWN FROM CHILDREN'S ROLE

Jane Schoettle, the founding director of Sprockets Toronto International Film Festival for Children, is stepping down after 10 years to expand her programming activities at the Toronto International Film Festival (Tiff). Sprockets will shortly embark on an international search for Schoettle's replacement. She will continue her role as chief buyer for Tiff Group's John VanDuzer Children's Film Collection.

TOMASSINI AND MOOIJ LAUNCH SILVERSALT PR

Claudia Tomassini and Thessa Mooij have launched the Berlin and New York-based publicity firm Silversalt PR, and started work at Venice with three films. Tomassini is co-founder of the European Media Agency, which will continue its marketing activities while Silversalt PR specialises in international film publicity in Europe and North America. Mooij has worked as a journalist and critic for Screen International, The Hollywood Reporter and Cineaste.

ESTRIN LEAVES AFI POST

The American Film Institute's executive vice-president Jonathan Estrin will depart his post after three years on September 28 to pursue other opportunities. Estrin will continue as a consultant for AFI on a variety of projects.