Paul Smith has been namedpresident of worldwide theatrical operations for the Columbia Tristar MotionPicture Group.

Effective immediately,Smith (pictured) will oversee Sony Pictures Releasing International (SPRI) andwill continue overseeing worldwide administrative operations for the studio'smarketing and distribution divisions.

"Paul has been mychief lieutenant in managing the day-to-day administration of the internationaldivision for quite some time and there is no one better prepared to take on thechallenges and opportunities presented by this division," said Jeff Blake,Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group's chairman of worldwide marketing anddistribution, to whom Smith reports.

"He has built astrong relationship with key personnel in all of our international offices andhe has earned their confidence and respect by demonstrating his skill as abusiness leader with a great inside understanding of Sony's global marketingand distribution apparatus."

Since May 2001 Smith hasserved as executive vice president of worldwide marketing and distribution forColumbia Tristar Motion Picture Group.

He played an integral rolein 10 local language productions in 10 countries throughout the world,overseeing saw all financial aspects including marketing and distribution of KungFu Hustle, as well as Sony'sItalian/Spanish hit co-production Melissa P.

His credits include Snatch,Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, andthe recent Tristar acquisitions Running With Scissors and Silent Hill.