Longtime UTA CEO Jeremy Zimmer is stepping down from his post, with David Kramer set as his successor, the agency announced on Monday. Kramer will step into the CEO role on June 1, 2025 while Zimmer will partner with Kramer on the succession process through the end of the year. Zimmer will continue to serve on UTA’s Board of Directors, where Paul Wachter will remain in his position as Chairman of the Board.
“These 35 years at UTA have been so incredibly rewarding,” said Zimmer. “While transition is never easy, this particular moment feels very right. David has been my chosen successor for many years and I’m certain that he will continue to uphold our great culture, support our amazing colleagues and honor the privilege of serving our clients.”
“I am honored to serve as the next CEO of this incredible company and work with our talented team of agents and executives who, unlike any other, prioritize clients above all else, and share a commitment to delivering tailored, impactful opportunities,” said Kramer. “Thanks to Jeremy’s vision and leadership, UTA has not only grown, but evolved into a more diversified, dynamic company, expanding into new areas, while strengthening our core business. Our complementary businesses are positioned to take advantage of an ever-changing environment and I look forward to building on our momentum to advance the UTA platform.”
Kramer has served as UTA’s President since 2022. He began his career in UTA’s mailroom before joining the motion picture department, and in addition to representing clients, he oversaw the filmed entertainment group, comedy touring and publishing divisions.
Read Zimmer’s full memo to staff, which TheWrap obtained, below.
I’m writing today with a mix of emotions—sadness, gratitude and deep appreciation—as I share an important milestone with you. I’m proud to announce that David Kramer will be the CEO of UTA beginning in June. After helping to ensure a smooth transition, I will be moving on professionally. It has always been my hope and plan for David to succeed me and seeing that vision come to life is incredibly gratifying.
The fact that I am ready for my next challenge does not obviate how hard it will be to not walk in every morning to a place I love. I will miss the deep sense of pride and belonging I have felt as part of the UTA family for the last 35 years.
I know that the time is right, the company is well positioned for its next phase of growth. We have successfully navigated both transformative and tumultuous times, and much of that is with David’s steady influence. I have been an agent for 45 years, and it’s now or never to see what else I will do. I’ve always been a builder, and I want to take the time to create something meaningful in this next chapter of my career.
For the next several months I will be completely available to help transition divisions and relationships to the colleagues who will assume new responsibilities. I will also be available for lunches, laughs and any sort of questions or concerns that I can be of help with.
Let’s be honest, the chances that I’m going to start an aluminum company in Alaska or a cement company in Cleveland are pretty slim. So this is not goodbye. I will remain on the board, and I will always be a friend, a supporter and a fiercely loyal champion of this great company we’ve built together and that I love.
Special thanks to my fellow board members for all the good times and support. My fellow founders- Jim Berkus and Peter Benedek, who have been great friends and wonderful mentors, even when I was a terrible mentee. I love you guys.
And most of all, my deepest love and gratitude to UTA—to our extraordinary clients, our incredible colleagues and the unwavering culture of believing in and fighting for artists’ dreams. UTA will always be part of me.
Jeremy
