In a pivotal leadership transition at one of Hollywood’s most influential talent agencies, UTA has announced that David Kramer will step into the role of CEO starting in June, taking over from the esteemed long-time leader Jeremy Zimmer.

Jeremy Zimmer, a co-founder of UTA and its CEO since 2012, is transitioning to a strategic position as board member and executive chairman, ensuring that his extensive experience continues to benefit the agency. Paul Wachter, who has been instrumental in UTA’s growth, will continue to serve as chairman of the board, providing guidance and oversight during this critical period of change.

“Announcing David as UTA’s next CEO is an exhilarating milestone for us. He is stepping into this leadership role at a time when UTA is at the forefront of transformative cultural shifts across media, sports, and entertainment,” said Wachter in a statement. “His client-focused approach and visionary leadership are exactly what UTA needs to maintain its trajectory of success.” He further praised Zimmer’s entrepreneurial vision and the robust foundation he has established for UTA, which has thrived under his guidance.

The elevation of Kramer to CEO was anticipated, as UTA has outlined this transition as part of a well-planned succession strategy. Having served as UTA’s president since 2022, Kramer has demonstrated the skills and dedication necessary to steer the agency into its next chapter, ensuring continuity and growth.

“These past 35 years at UTA have been immensely fulfilling,” stated Zimmer in his announcement. “Although transitions can be challenging, this moment feels particularly right. David has been my chosen successor for many years, and I have every confidence he will uphold our remarkable culture, support our talented colleagues, and honor the privilege of serving our clients with excellence.”

“I am truly honored to be appointed as UTA’s next CEO. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Jeremy for his unwavering dedication and passion, which have been pivotal in establishing UTA as one of the leading global talent agencies,” Kramer expressed. “His insightful guidance has been instrumental in building our foundational strengths and expanding our services, which now encompass world-class capabilities across filmed entertainment, music, sports, the creator economy, and advisory services.”

Under Zimmer’s leadership, UTA has experienced significant growth, completing approximately 19 acquisitions and forming key partnerships with organizations like Klutch Sports Group. Moreover, UTA secured private equity investment from EQT, which is expected to further accelerate its strategic growth initiatives and market presence.

In a communication to staff, which was later reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Kramer outlined his intention to adhere to the established growth trajectory and innovative spirit that has characterized UTA.

“UTA has a proud history of taking calculated risks, exploring new opportunities, and redefining industry standards through our work,” Kramer emphasized in a memo to staff. “Our commitment will remain focused on fostering entrepreneurial spirit and leveraging the distinctive strengths that have propelled us to success across various sectors. Together, we will cultivate collaboration throughout our platform, enabling us to identify emerging cultural trends and unlock new opportunities for our clients and the company at large.”

Zimmer will maintain his role as executive chairman through 2025, assuring staff that he will be fully engaged in facilitating the transition of responsibilities to new leaders within the organization. He expressed his commitment to being available for discussions, support, and guidance during this pivotal period.

Despite stepping back from his day-to-day role, Zimmer clarified that he won’t be leaving the entertainment sector completely, hinting at future endeavors that may unfold.

“Having spent 45 years as an agent, I feel it is now or never to explore new ventures. I have always been a builder, and I wish to invest time in creating something meaningful in the next chapter of my career,” he noted. “To be frank, the likelihood of me starting an aluminum company in Alaska or a cement firm in Cleveland is quite low. Therefore, this is not goodbye; I will continue to be involved on the board, and I will always be a steadfast supporter and champion of this exceptional company we have built together, which I hold dear.”

You can read Kramer’s complete email to UTA staff below.

TO: All Employees

FROM: DK

SUBJECT: Leadership Update

Team,

I am deeply honored to be appointed as UTA’s next CEO. We are immensely thankful to Jeremy for his unwavering passion and commitment to this team, which has played a crucial role in establishing UTA as a premier global talent agency. His visionary leadership has been foundational in expanding our services and enhancing our capabilities in filmed entertainment, music, sports, the creator economy, and advisory services.

There’s a reason UTA has been my home throughout my career—working alongside such a talented team and witnessing the profound impact of our work for clients is truly rewarding.

UTA has continuously embraced risks, explored new domains, and established industry benchmarks through our efforts. Our focus will remain on nurturing that entrepreneurial spirit and leveraging the unique strengths that have enabled us to excel in every category. Together, we will ensure that we foster genuine collaboration across our various functions, allowing us to harness our capability to anticipate cultural shifts and unlock greater opportunities for both our clients and the company as a whole.

The greatness of UTA is defined not only by the strength of our individual contributions or our expanding influence; it stems from our collective commitment to prioritizing our clients and our relentless pursuit of discovering, creating, and sustaining meaningful opportunities for exceptional talent and brands. This remains the cornerstone of our success and what sets us apart in the industry.

I am enthusiastic about collaborating with each of you as we build upon the strengths of the businesses we’ve established and navigate this company into a new era characterized by growth and innovation.

I look forward to engaging with all of you in the coming weeks to discuss our priorities for the future.

Please join me in extending our gratitude to Jeremy for his extraordinary vision and leadership. Thank you for your ongoing dedication to making UTA the remarkable company it is today.

Best regards,

DK

This article was originally published by The Hollywood Reporter.