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Paladin Artists Appoints New CEO; In Talks to Acquire US Agency
May5
US-based independent agency Paladin Artists has announced the appointment of Rick Levy as chief executive officer, signalling a new phase of growth for the boutique company.
Levy brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience, having previously served as a founding partner, chief operating officer and general counsel of ICM Partners.
During his tenure, he played a key role in the agency’s strategic expansion, operational modernisation, and mergers and acquisitions, including the 2012 management-led buyout from private equity.
“What attracted me to Paladin was not the size of the company, but the size of the opportunity,” Levy said in a statement. “Our edge is our ability to be nimble in the face of rapid changes in the ecosystem in which we operate. With an exceptional foundation, a respected roster, and an artist-centric culture already in place, I’m excited to lead the next phase of strategic growth to build the leading independent booking and live entertainment company in the business.”
Levy has also served as interim CEO of Just For Laughs / Juste Pour Rire and is currently a partner at London-based Primary Talent International, in addition to his new role as CEO of Paladin Artists.
Commenting on the appointment, Paladin founders Andy Somers and Steve Martin said: “Rick’s experience building and scaling agency businesses makes him ideally suited to help us guide Paladin through its next chapter. We are thrilled that he has chosen to join our team and look forward to creating new opportunities for our clients.”
Partner Bruce Solar added: “This is about expanding our capabilities to build for the future, strengthening our leadership team, and creating an environment where ambitious agents and our clients can grow and thrive.”
In addition to the leadership appointment, the company confirmed it is in advanced discussions to acquire New York-based agency Entourage Talent Associates, founded by Wayne Forte. The agency represents acts including Tedeschi Trucks Band and Joe Satriani.
Forte, who currently serves as president of the National Independent Talent Organization and has been a member of Paladin’s board since 2021, said: “Paladin and Entourage have built a strong informal working relationship over the years, grounded in a shared commitment to artist-first representation. When we formally bring our two businesses together, we will be positioned to expand resources for our clients while preserving the independence and personal service that define both organizations. I am confident it will be the first of many impactful combinations for Paladin.”
Headquartered in Los Angeles and New York, Paladin Artists represents more than 250 acts, including Blondie, Sublime, CAKE, War, The Monkees, The Afghan Whigs, Stevie Van Zandt, OMD and David Gilmour.
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