Lorenza Muñoz is heading to the Academy…

The Mexican journalist/author-turned-executive has joined the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) as its Managing Director, Membership and Awards.

She’ll oversee the activities and initiatives involving the organization’s nearly 7,000 filmmakers and artists, including global membership outreach and engagement events and Academy Awards submissions, rules and voting.

She begins her new position September 3, reporting to Academy CEO Dawn Hudson.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lorenza to our leadership team,” said Hudson. “She brings a deep passion for movies, extensive knowledge of our film industry and years of effectively working with different constituencies and community groups. Lorenza will play a key role in our efforts to develop a more internationally connected membership and to advance the global mission of this organization.”

Muñoz has held positions in public relations, community outreach, public policy and journalism, most recently serving as press and policy deputy for Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, where she oversaw media coverage, policy strategy and community outreach.

As a staff writer at the Los Angeles Times from 1994-2008, Muñoz wrote more than 1,200 stories on entertainment, business, politics and crime. During her tenure, she reported on the then-nascent independent film scene and the wave of foreign talent that was emerging as a force in Hollywood.

“I am excited and honored to begin my new role at the Academy,” said Muñoz. “I look forward to working with the members and the Academy team to promote the art of filmmaking around the world.”