UTA Elevates James Wright to Co-Head of UK Music Group

On July 15, 2026, United Talent Agency (UTA) announced that James Wright will step into the role of co‑head of its United Kingdom music division, partnering with long‑time co‑head Neil Warnock. The promotion places Wright at the helm of UTA’s London‑based music team, where he will steer both short‑ and long‑term strategies and shape the department’s industry positioning.

Wright’s journey with UTA began in 2015, following the agency’s acquisition of The Agency Group, the UK’s largest independent music agency. Before that, he worked as an agent at Elastic Artists, and earlier in his career he served as an A&R manager for Candid Records, where he signed artists, released records and launched an in‑house live‑booking arm.

Under Wright’s leadership, UTA represents a diverse roster that spans pop, adult contemporary, jazz, electronic and hip‑hop. Artists in his fold include Lizzo, Take That, John Legend, David Byrne, Jacob Collier, Underworld, The Marías, Rita Ora and Jon Batiste.

Sam Kirby Yoh and David Zedek, UTA’s global music co‑heads, highlighted that the agency’s worldwide music business thrives on collaboration across genres, disciplines and territories. They noted that London is a cornerstone of that network, essential for spotting emerging touring talent and executing complex global runs for established stars.

Wright expressed his enthusiasm: “Leading the London music group with Neil at such a pivotal time is incredibly exciting. Our focus is on signing exceptional artists and continuing to build a team culture that is inclusive, collaborative and accountable, where a colleague’s win or an artist’s success genuinely feels like a win for everyone.” Warnock added, “It’s been a privilege to watch James grow into not only a first‑class agent but a thoughtful, trusted leader. His intelligence, self‑deprecating humour and razor‑sharp instincts will be instrumental in shaping the next chapter of UTA’s global music business.”

The promotion comes amid UTA’s continued expansion of its music division. The 2015 acquisition of The Agency Group added more than 2,000 acts—including Alice Cooper, Dolly Parton and Status Quo—to UTA’s roster. In 2021, the agency strengthened its UK presence further by acquiring Echo Location Talent Agency, a London‑based live‑music specialist.

UTA’s music team covers touring, brand partnerships, endorsements, business development and career management. The London office is a key hub for coordinating international tours, negotiating venue contracts and managing global logistics for artists such as Lizzo and John Legend.

Industry observers point out that the UK market remains a vital source of touring revenue for global agencies. London’s status as a cultural capital and its proximity to major European markets make it an attractive base for agencies coordinating multi‑city tours and cross‑border collaborations.

Wright’s background in A&R and live‑music booking positions him to leverage UTA’s existing relationships with venues, promoters and festival organizers. His experience across diverse genres aligns with UTA’s strategy of representing artists across the musical spectrum.

The appointment is part of a broader trend of talent agencies reinforcing their music divisions to compete in an industry where live‑performance revenue has outpaced recorded‑music sales. By elevating seasoned agents like Wright, agencies aim to strengthen their negotiating power and broaden service offerings for artists.

As announced, Wright will continue to oversee the London team while collaborating with Warnock on strategic initiatives. No immediate changes to UTA’s global music leadership were reported.

The agency’s statement confirmed that the promotion is effective immediately and that Wright will work with the existing London staff to execute UTA’s touring and artist‑development plans.

In short, UTA’s appointment of James Wright as co‑head of its UK music group underscores the agency’s commitment to expanding its live‑music capabilities and reinforcing its presence in one of the world’s most important music markets.