Christine Essel has been promoted to senior VP of planning and development, public affairs, for Paramount Pictures' Studio Group.
In her new position, Essel will continue to oversee the company's interactions with city, county and state governments as well as with local civic and community groups.
Essel, a founder and former chair of the Studio Planning Council, has long been active in documenting the economic benefits of showbiz.
"Film production is a $20 billion-plus engine for Southern California alone," said Essel. "But until we could provide them with the economic impact statistics, the political forces didn't really respect the entertainment industry."
Essel joined Par's finance department in 1978, and in 1981 became director of planning and development. In 1986 she was promoted to VP. She played a major role in the renovation and expansion of the 63-acre facility.
Essel, who is serving a second term as a board member of the California State Film Commission, also has for the past four years served as an L.A. city commissioner
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