Vadim Ivanov, currently Commercial Director of Universal Pictures International in Russia, has been promoted to Managing Director (MD).

He replaces Eugene Beginin, MD, Russia, who is leaving to pursue other interests within the Russian film industry. The announcement was made today by David Kosse, President, Universal Pictures International (UPI).

As the new MD, Ivanov will now be responsible for overseeing the theatrical marketing and distribution strategies and activities for all theatrical titles under the Universal banner throughout Russia and will supervise all aspects of the film business for this market.

Ivanov will report to London-based Duncan Clark, Executive Vice President of International Distribution, and on a daily basis to Niels Swinkels, VP Sales & Distribution, EMEA.

Ivanov, a sales, marketing and distribution executive joined Universal in August 2007 as Commercial Director. Before that, he was the theatrical sales director for 20th Century Fox in the former CIS. From 2003-2006, he worked with Gemini Film International in marketing and distribution roles.