Universal Pictures International today announced the appointment of Ben Roberts to the position of director of acquisitions. Based in London, the newly-created appointment is effective April 2004.

Ben Roberts' responsibilities as director of acquisitions will centre around the development of UPI's strategy of all-rights acquisitions for Universal's key operating company territories. Working closely with Universal's territory management and LA Acquisitions teams, he will implement a global acquisitions strategy for theatrical, video/DVD/TV rights of feature film product.

Local-language acquisition activity will continue to be managed by operating companies in-territory.

In making the announcement, Pete Smith, President of UPI, stated, 'We are delighted to welcome Ben Roberts to the team. His successful track record and experience will be a great asset to the business. His role will continue to drive our strategic goal of expanding global acquisitions activity'.

Prior to joining Universal Pictures International, Ben Roberts was general manager at UK distributor Metrodome, handling such titles as Monster, Spellbound and Donnie Darko.