MUMBAI: Motion Picture Association of America, (MPAA) Inc has appointed Howard Gantman as vice president, corporate communications.

A veteran public affairs and communications executive with extensive experience in crisis management, coalition building, strategic positioning and political affairs, Gantman will oversee the MPAA’s communications program from the Washington, D.C. office. Elizabeth Kaltman, Vice President, Corporate Communications will continue to oversee the MPAA’s communications efforts in Los Angeles, focusing especially on content protection, movie ratings, litigation and studio relations.

"The MPAA is at a critical time in its evolution as the voice and advocate of the American motion picture, home video and television industries around the world. Howard’s unique combination of expertise in public affairs and communications, coupled with his extensive experience in the government and media sectors will make him a critical player as we interface with the media, the public, federal agencies and our member companies in this new digital era," said MPAA chairman and CEO Dan Glickman.

Gantman has been with the MPAA as Senior Communications Consultant since August. Previously he served as Senator Dianne Feinstein’s Staff Director of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies where he was responsible for overseeing President Obama’s swearing in ceremony.

Gantman replaced Angela Belden Martinez, who has been named senior advisor, director of Outreach for Economic Development at the United States Department of Commerce. "It has been a pleasure working with Angie. Angie is an intelligent, dedicated and creative professional who served the MPAA well, and I have no doubt that she will be a tremendous asset to the Obama Administration," Glickman said.