MUMBAI: Universal Pictures has appointed NBC Universal veteran Jessica Schell as executive vice president (business development and strategic planning).

Schell will work on projects across all business units of NBC Universal. Shewill report to Universal vice-chairman and COO Rick Finkelstein.

"With so many exciting changes in our business, we need the kind of expertise that Jessica has to offer," Finkelstein said.

"She‘s an accomplished executive with a keen understanding of our business challenges and opportunities, and we‘re thrilled to have her," he added.

Schell previously served as NBC Uni‘s senior vice-president digital media strategy and business development.