The UK's FilmFour has appointed Rebecca Yeldham - previously senior film programmer at the Sundance Film Festival - to head its start-up production office in Los Angeles.

Yeldham will liaise with US companies including Warner Bros, which struck a co-production pact with the UK company earlier this year (ScreenDaily, May 9). She will also work in the independent sector, developing relations with emerging talent. The office opens in November.

Yeldham also worked as creative consultant with producer Arthur Cohn and developed, acquired and produced films at companies including Fox/Lorber Associates. She will report to FilmFour CEO Paul Webster and work closely with FilmFour's UK-based Jim Wilson and Elinor Day.

FilmFour, one of the most prolific financiers of UK material, has been aiming to increase its quota of US product partly to bolster its local distribution arm. Webster commented: "I have long admired [Yeldham's] work as a key member of the Sundance team. She has unparalleled contacts with film-makers, she's smart, savvy and a great laugh."

"Yeldham said: "I am convinced that with our unique passion and commitment to creating a distinctive commercial cinema, together we will build something really special."