The Los Angeles chapter of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts has appointed Chantal Rickards as the first CEO of the post. Rickards is a former television executive with 27 years of experience in senior positions. As reported by Deadline, Rickards was most recently the Head of Programming and Branded Content at MEC, a division of Group M. Prior to that, she was Commissioning Executive at the BBC where she was responsible for launching and overseeing original programming for the UKTV lifestyle television channels. Her TV credits include the international formats for Masterchef, Countdown and Through The Keyhole.

Kieran Breen, Chairman of BAFTA LA said, “BAFTA Los Angeles is in a growth period, expanding its operations and programs, and putting exciting new plans in place to become the hub of the British creative community in Los Angeles. We are delighted to welcome Chantal, whose experience and vision will be invaluable in driving these plans forward alongside Director of Operations, Matthew Wiseman and existing team members Wayne Watkins, Lisa Ogdie, Ciaran Toner, Rosalyn Hummel and Pete Modeste. I would also like to thank Donald Haber who will be retiring in May after 18 years of outstanding service to BAFTA Los Angeles.”

Rickards will relocate from London to LA and begin her new position on April 14, 2015.