BEV’s founding director Rachel Millward will stay on as Chief Executive. “We are thrilled to welcome someone so respected in the film industry at this crucial time in Birds Eye View’s development,” Millward says of Gerova’s appointment. “Kate brings an understanding of the economics of film, creative excellence and a strong appreciation of the marketplace and audiences. This will enable BEV to build on our significant cultural successes, and to continue supporting and celebrating international women filmmakers with ever-increasing impact.”

“I’m delighted to join Birds Eye View at a time with huge potential for international growth, with the creative vision of female talent gaining increased prominence at leading international festivals and on our screens,” said Gerova. “I will be building on BEV’s track record of fantastic and innovative programming and events, while also developing year round activities to inspire, educate and broker more opportunities for women filmmakers.”

Gerova will oversee BEV’s new focus on talent development and increased collaboration within the wider film industry. A full BEV International Film Festival will be relaunched in 2014 as a biennial event, allowing greater focus on specific regions and themes.

BEV also announces the first events for its 2013 Film Festival: Celebrating Arab Women Filmmakers, which will showcase their new approach.

This includes an International Women’s Day Gala screening of Venice award-winner Wadjda on March 8 at BFI Southbank, including a Q&A with director Haifaa Al Mansour.

The man 2013 Film Festival will run from 3 – 10 April, with a programme of feature, documentary and short films from Arab women directors. These will be shown at both BFI Southbank and Barbican, along with specially commissioned live scored from British Arab musicians.