In a move to streamline its global acquisition activities, Universal Pictures has appointed Peter Kujawski executive vice president of worldwide acquisitions.

Kujawski, currently EVP of international sales for the studio’s Focus Features, will be based in Los Angeles and report to Universal Pictures co-chairman Donna Langley while also working closely with the studio’s president, international David Kosse.

In a statement, Universal said Kujawski, who will oversee a small Los Angeles-based team, will be “charged with centralizing and streamlining Universal’s acquisitions efforts across the globe and maximizing distribution opportunities for the company.”

The appointment is the latest change in the ranks of the Hollywood studios’ local production and acquisition units. Warner Bros and Paramount both shut down their international buying operations earlier this year and Disney closed its local language production unit in June. At Universal, Christian Grass recently left his post as president of Universal Pictures International productions and acquisitions.

In announcing Kujawski’s appointment Langley said: “Peter’s vast experience selling specialty films gives him a unique perspective on the global marketplace and undeniably qualifies him to lead our acquisitions efforts. His expertise and discriminating taste for quality films that resonate around the world will serve as enormous assets to Universal. We are thrilled to have him join us.”