MUMBAI: Universal Pictures has promoted Jimmy Horowitz as president.

A key member of Universal’s senior management team who has worked at the studio for 18 years, Horowitz previously served as co-president of production and executive vice president of Universal Pictures.

In his new role, Horowitz will work with Universal Pictures chairman Adam Fogelson, co-chairman Donna Langley and vice chairman and COO Rick Finkelstein to shape and implement domestic strategic business initiatives and help manage day-to-day business operations. He will report to Fogelson and Finkelstein.

"Jimmy is a critical gatekeeper for our company, someone who all our filmmakers know and respect. His deep knowledge of our business and the people we work with make him a trusted strategic advisor who will play a major role in helping us shape the future of this studio," said Fogelson.

As president, Horowitz will add the oversight of Chris Meledandri’s Illumination Entertainment and Universal’s relationship with Relativity Media to his portfolio.

"Jimmy is a trusted colleague and friend. He’s a skillful negotiator who has the right instincts and judgment to help us move forward Universal’s agenda in the face of any challenge. This is a well-deserved promotion," said Langley.

Prior to joining the studio, Horowitz served as counsel for the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).