UTA Taps Partner Darnell Strom to Lead Growing London Office

UTA partner Darnell Strom is heading across the pond to lead the agency’s growing London office.

Previously based in Los Angeles, Strom will step into the newly created role to oversee UTA’s U.K. operations as well as its expansion into key markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The move emphasizes UTA’s intentions of growing its footprint in London as the city becomes increasingly key to the global entertainment industry.

UTA first opened its London office two years ago, following the company’s acquisition of local agency Curtis Brown Group, ROOF Football Agency and consultancy firm MediaLink. Strom will work closely with these groups in London, as well as UTA’s local music, creators, brand marketing, comedy, production arts and advisory services teams.

Strom joined UTA in 2019 and was previously its head of culture and commerce. He already has plenty of experience on the global talent stage, with his client list including Malala Yousafzai, Michaela Coel, Grace Wales Bonner, Jonathan Anderson, i-D Magazine, “Industry” creators Mickey Down and Konrad Kay, Jon Batiste, Karlie Kloss, Jose Andres, Whitney Wolfe Herd and Alexis Ohanian.

“This marks an exciting new chapter for UTA,” UTA CEO David Kramer said in a statement. “Darnell has long been a connector across departments, industries and geographies. His deep relationships and creative vision make him uniquely suited to lead this next phase of our international expansion.”

Added Strom, “London is one of the most dynamic and creative markets in the world, and UTA has only scratched the surface of what’s possible here. I’m honoued to lead our next phase of growth working with the incredible team we have in London, to build a stronger and more connected UTA across London, Europe and beyond.”