Mike Fleming

Looking to beef up its place in the independent film finance/distribution arenas, Gersh has promoted to partner Jay Cohen, the producer who last year joined the agency to spearhead the department. Gersh has also hired producer Jennifer Dana to work closely with Cohen to package projects and work with film funds. Dana is in post-production on the Emma Roberts-Freddie Highmore film Homework, which she produced under her Mint Pictures banner. She formed her producing company after a stint with Andrew Lauren Productions. Among the film funds repped by Gersh are Queen Nefertari Productions, Northern Lights Films and Ketchup Media. The agency is also looking to secure offshore equity from Columbia, UK and China.

“This is an important and necessary step for the growth and expansion of the agency,” co-presidents Bob and David Gersh said in a statement. “In today’s climate it is vital not only to be representing clients but also helping to secure the financing and package films for them. Under the leadership of Jay Cohen and with the added expertise of Jennifer Dana, we have a very strong and capable division that will bring numerous benefits to our clientele.”

The 61-year old agency recently lost agents Sarah Self and David Kopple, the latter of whom landed at CAA.