Ricardo Avila is to leave his position as general manager of Columbia TriStar, Italy, after 16 years at the company. "It was a hard and difficult decision to make," he said in a statement. "After 16 years with this company in four different countries around the world it really felt like home, but I believe it is the right time for me to approach other endeavours. I am very grateful to Columbia for all these wonderful years and very excited about what the future my bring."

Avila worked for Columbia TriStar in Venezuela, Ecuador and Portugal before taking the top job in Italy. He reported to Ernesto Victoria, president of Columbia TriStar, Spain.

Columbia TriStar Film Distributors International will restructure its operations in Italy as a result of Avila's departure.