UK film body the Film Council has appointed Jan-Jacob Lousberg as European business executive to spearhead its European strategy.

Lousberg, previously a story editor and acquisitions and development executive at Fine Line Features in the UK, will have a key role in meeting the council's stated aim of investing at least 20% of its production funds in European co-productions. The Film Council's remit spans funding activities which were previously operated by British Screen and its offshoot The European Co-Production Fund.

"We have a minimum investment of 20% of our total production fund budget targeted at European co-productions with continental Europe," said chief executive officer John Woodward. "[Lousberg]'s appointment is a vital element in strengthening relationships with all our current and future European partners."

Lousberg's activities include including finding projects, talent, and funding opportunities in Europe. His brief includes working on wider strategic issues, as well as helping develop creative and business partnerships in Europe.

Before joining Fine Line's UK office, Lousberg was development manager at A-Lab in Amsterdam.