The 'Source Code' producer has been elected by the Academy's Board of Governors to tackle the presiding duty, which was previously held by Tom Sherak since 2009.
- Aug 1, 2012
AceShowbiz - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has found its new president after Tom Sherak left the unpaid position, which he had held since 2009. On Tuesday night, July 31, the organization announced that producer Hawk Koch has been elected by the Academy's Board of Governors to tackle the presiding duty.
This would mark Koch's first term as the president in the office. Before being hailed the new leader, the veteran producer has been a member of the Academy's producers branch since 2004. He was the first vice president of the Academy during the past year. He has also previously served three one-year terms as treasurer.
By taking the duty, Koch follows the footsteps of his father Howard W. Koch. The late producer served as the president from 1977 to 1979. The president himself is the one who is responsible for the annual Oscar telecast, including choosing a producer for the prestigious prize-giving event.
Koch recently executive produced the Jake Gyllenhaal-starring action thriller, "Source Code". His other producer credits include 2010's "Norman", 1995's "Losing Isaiah", and 1983's "Gorky Park". He also executive produces upcoming drama "Very Good Girls", which stars Dakota Fanning and Elizabeth Olsen.
Aside from electing Koch as its new president, the Academy has chosen Public Relations Branch governor Cheryl Boone Isaacs as the first vice president. Producers Branch governor Kathleen Kennedy was elected to one vice president post, Writers Branch governor Phil Robinson was re-elected to the other vice president post, and Public Relations Branch governor Rob Friedman was elected as treasurer. Meanwhile, executives Branch governor Robert Rehme was elected as secretary.
