Elizabeth Kaltman has been named vice president of corporate communications at The Motion Picture Association Of America (MPAA) in the wake of Kori Bernards' departure to become senior vice president of media relations at Universal Pictures.

Kaltman has served as director of corporate communications for more than two years and will continue to be based in the MPAA's Los Angeles office and report to executive vice president and chief communications officer Seth Oster.

The new appointee's enhanced responsibilities will see her focus on the MPAA's international work and its education and copyright awareness and protection efforts.

'Elizabeth has played an essential role in all aspects of the MPAA's public relations and outreach on the issues of anti-piracy, litigation, legislation and education,' MPAA chairman and CEO Dan Glickman said. 'She's earned these new responsibilities and we are very pleased to be able to promote her forward within the organisation.'

Prior to joining the MPAA Kaltman held key positions in Los Angeles city government, most recently as communications director for City Council member Wendy Greuel and before that as a top press aide to Mayor James K Hahn.