Cinema Exhibitors’ Association Chief Executive Phil Clapp has been elected President of the International Union of Cinemas (UNIC), the organisation representing the interests of cinema associations and key operators in Europe.
At the same time, UNIC also announced the election of a new Board of Directors, this refresh following an organisational transformation which in 2011 saw it move its head office from Paris to Brussels, sign up new company members and strengthen its profile amongst EU decision-makers and the wider international motion picture industry.
Commenting on his appointment, Phil Clapp said:
“I am delighted that fellow UNIC members have put their faith in me to continue the growth of the organisation initiated under the Presidency of Ad Weststrate. There are tremendous opportunities for UNIC in promoting the value that cinemas bring not only to audiences, but to the wider film industry. Taking on this challenge at a time when the industry is experiencing such huge innovation and change only adds to my enthusiasm for the time ahead.”
Ad Weststrate, who is stepping down after overseeing a period of successful and momentous change as President of UNIC, commented:
“After eight years of championing and defending European cinema exhibition – an industry that I owe so much to and hold very dear – and after overseeing a much-needed organisational transformation, we now move on to the next stage in our growth. Phil Clapp is an excellent choice to continue that process and extend the influence of UNIC. I wish him and exhibitor colleagues all the best for the coming years.”