The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has named Christine Simmons to the position of Chief Operating Officer, it was announced Tuesday by Academy CEO Dawn Hudson. Simmons, president and COO of the Los Angeles Sparks, will assume her new role in January, reporting directly to Hudson.

Simmons will be responsible for the day-to-day management and enhancement of the Academy’s internal organization and infrastructure, with focus on the Academy Foundation, comprised of the Margaret Herrick Library, Academy Film Archive, its educational programs and the Science and Technology Council. She will join leadership in collaborative efforts to fulfill and further the Academy mission, that is to recognize and uphold excellence in the motion picture arts and sciences, inspire imagination, and connect the world through the medium of motion pictures.

“There has been—and continues to be—a sea change in our film community, our Academy, and in the culture at large. Christine brings both nonprofit and corporate management expertise, an ability to implement creative solutions, and a love of film to our Academy. It’s the perfect moment for an innovative thinker,” said Hudson.

“I look forward to joining the team and contributing to the innovation and growth of the operational excellence of the Academy. The organization’s efforts to support filmmakers and programs where every person’s story can be told are invaluable,” said Simmons.

The LA Sparks, a founding team of the WNBA, are three-time League champions and one of the League’s most successful franchise business operations. Prior to becoming President and COO, Simmons served as Executive Vice President of Magic Johnson Enterprises where she led the day-to-day operations of the Sparks throughout the team’s first season. Before working at MJE, she held senior positions managing and expanding supplier diversity at both Disney and NBC/Universal Studios.

Simmons serves on the advisory councils for Women in Sports and Events and Next Play Capital. She previously served as Board President of the UCLA Alumni Association and is a member of the UCLA Foundation’s Board of Directors and the UC Regents. In October 2018, Ebony magazine included her in its “Power 100” list of inspiring African Americans.