Lindsay Wagner has been named Chief Diversity Officer at global talent, entertainment, and sports company United Talent Agency (UTA).
In her new role, UTA says that she will expand and drive “innovative strategy” for the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
In the newly created position, Wagner will “amplify and articulate UTA’s existing values and commitments to the creative and business community,” adds the company.
This includes the company’s previously announced commitment of $1 million to social justice causes.
Additionally, Wagner will counsel the company’s clients, and devise and implement tactics that, UTA says will “exemplify UTA’s dedication to upholding diverse perspectives and projects”.
Based in Los Angeles, Wagner will report jointly to Jeremy Zimmer, UTA CEO, and Jean-Rene Zetrenne, UTA Partner & Chief People Officer.
Before joining UTA, Wagner was SVP and Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, North America, at the global communications consulting firm, Ketchum.
At Ketchum, she developed and executed an community-centered DE&I strategy and structure, which included auditing the firm’s existing programs to positively impact recruitment, and helping to establish a global town hall for Black employees, which lead to the creation of the Black Together Employee Resource Group in support of Black employees.
Wagner serves as a jury member for The ADCOLOR Awards, a ceremony to celebrate the achievements of diverse communities in the advertising, marketing, PR, media and entertainment industries, a strategic advisor for the Black-owned birthing center Kindred Space LA, an advisor for feminist platform and community center SOVERN, and as an advisory board member for The Lantern Network.
She is also a member of direct action group Justice League NYC & CA, and has served as Executive Director of the New York City chapter of ColorComm, a platform addressing diversity and inclusion across the communications and media industries.
She is a receiver of the Chairman’s Award from the NAACP Image Awards, and earned a Pat Tobin Award from the Black Public Relations Society of Los Angeles.
“As UTA grows, we must continue to cultivate a more diverse, multifaceted and inclusive culture.”
Jeremy Zimmer, UTA
Jeremy Zimmer, said: “As UTA grows, we must continue to cultivate a more diverse, multifaceted and inclusive culture.
“Lindsay has a proven track record of pushing the envelope and leading with a fresh and unique perspective. I am confident that she will bring ingenuity to this new role and will be a great steward for the cause.”
“I’m thrilled to welcome Lindsay to the UTA family.”
Jean-Rene Zetrenne, UTA
Jean-Rene Zetrenne, added: “I’m thrilled to welcome Lindsay to the UTA family.
“With her wide-ranging experience and expertise, we know that she will elevate our mission to foster an inclusive environment, which allows for our colleagues to thrive and will attract the most inspiring and dynamic people to our company.”
“Entertainment sits at the cross-section of culture, storytelling and influence.”
Lindsay Wagner
Lindsay Wagner, said: “Entertainment sits at the cross-section of culture, storytelling and influence and therefore it’s critical that we collectively continue to identify and amplify authentic representation inside and outside of the organization.
“I am honored to join UTA and contribute to this purpose-led team focused on building a more diverse, equitable and inclusive community and industry now and for generations to come.”Music Business Worldwide
