Duncan Clark, EVP Distribution, Universal Pictures International (UPI) today announced that Niels Swinkels has been promoted to managing director of UPI UK and Ireland.

In his new role, Swinkels will oversee the distribution strategy and all other activities surrounding Universal’s theatrical titles in the territory.

Swinkels joined Universal in 2004 as international marketing director and served in various positions including VP Marketing and VP sales and distribution. 

Swinkels, currently senior VP Distribution, Europe, Middle East and Africa, replaces Simon Hewlett, who was recently promoted to EVP Marketing.

“Niels has been an outstanding executive for us in his supervision of the European territory; he’ll be greatly missed by all his colleagues across the continent,” said Clark. “However, I am delighted he has accepted the challenge of running the UK operation – it is a terrific opportunity for him and I am sure he’ll do a great job.”