The general assembly for non-profit organization Animation in Europe—a federation of European animation producer associations—has elected its board for the next two years.

During its annual meeting at the Annecy International Animation Festival in France last week, it was determined that Watch Next Media CEO Philippe Alessandri would continue to serve as chairman. He also serves as president of the French animation producers union. Alessandri landed the role of chairman of the inaugural board in October 2016 in Cannes. Animation in Europe officially launched the following year.

Tom van Waveren, CEO and creative director of London-based producer/distributor CAKE Entertainment, will return as vice chair. He joins new vice chairs Dirk Beinhold, the head of German prodco Akkord Film Produktion, and Moe Honan of Ireland’s Moetion Films. The federation’s outgoing vice chairs are Robert Jaszczurowski of Poland’s SPPA; Anne-Sophie Vanhollebeke of Cartoon Italia and Tony Loeser of Germany’s Produzenten Allianz. Belgium’s Annemie Degryse will serve for the first time as treasurer, taking over from van Waveren.

Mar Sáez Pedrero, from Barcelona-based animation producers association ProAnimats, will return as general secretary.

Animation in Europe backs the interests of indie producers, studios and distributors of animated films and TV series established within the European Union. It helps companies access financing, expand their global reach, as well as develop and retain European talent.

In total, 18 member organizations from 15 European countries make up the federation. Other represented groups include Cartoon Italia, Animation UK and Animation Ireland.

In 2017, Animation in Europe committed to the Animation Action Plan issued by Europe Creative and has been collaborating with its members on further development and implementation of its principles in future European policy beyond 2021.

Pictured left to right: Sáez Pedrero, Alessandri, van Waveren, Beinhold, Degryse, Honan