The British Academy Of Film And Television Arts New York has appointed Julie La’Bassiere and Lisa Harrison as CEO and COO, respectively.

Julie La'Bassiere

La’Bassiere (main picture) comes from operating her own firm Tall Bird Marketing and Strategy where she created and managed brand and product development and marketing strategies for filmmakers and organisations. Prior to that, she was head of marketing at FilmBuff.

“I am thrilled to be joining the BAFTA New York team and hope to continue the great work that has already been done to promote and support British talent in film and television in the greatest city in the world,” said La’Bassiere, who starts her new role on June 1.

Harrison will oversee day-to-day operations including BAFTA New York’s year-round programme of screenings and Q&As.

She is currently a board member of BAFTA New York and long-time screening committee co-chair. Harrison most recently served as BBC Worldwide operations director.

“BAFTA New York is thriving and I’m looking forward to joining the management team at this exciting time for the organisation,” said Harrison.

Both appointments are effective as of June 1.

Christina Thomas will step down as CEO and assume the role of development consultant responsible for expanding the non-profit’s funding resources.