Linda Yaccarino named Group Chair at talent management company YMU

Talent Management Company YMU has made what it calls the “strategic appointment” of prominent media and advertising executive Linda Yaccarino to the role of Group Chair.

Alongside her current position as Chairman of Global Advertising and Partnerships at NBCUniversal, YMU says that Yaccarino will bring a wealth of industry experience to the role of Group Chair.

YMU says the exec will work closely with YMU Group CEO, Mary Bekhait.

Bekhait has spearheaded the Group since stepping into the role in 2021.

Yaccarino is described by YMU as “one of the foremost visionaries in the media and advertising landscape”.

The executive has been inducted into the B&C’s Hall of Fame, and has received the New York Women in Communications Matrix Award, the UJA Foundation’s Mac Dane Award for Humanitarian Excellence, and the ‘Distinguished Alumni Award’ from Penn State University.

The YMU Group is home to a global team of over 350 executives.

The company’s worldwide client list includes Steve Aoki, Simon Cowell, Paris Hilton, Emily Ratajkowski, 3LAU, ThankYouX, Tyler Adams, Ant & Dec, Amelia Dimoldenberg, Francis Bourgeois, Davina McCall, Clara Amfo, Dr Julie, Take That, James Arthur, Claudia Winkleman amongst many others.

“I am delighted to announce Linda Yaccarino as Chair of YMU Group – I have been seeking the appointment of a Chair since her predecessor’s departure last year and wanted someone of exceptional calibre for the role.”

Mary Bekhait, YMU

Mary Bekhait, Group CEO, said: “I am delighted to announce Linda Yaccarino as Chair of YMU Group – I have been seeking the appointment of a Chair since her predecessor’s departure last year and wanted someone of exceptional calibre for the role.

“I knew instantly I had found that person when I met Linda. Her unparalleled influence, acumen and reputation are renowned. I am incredibly excited about the work that we will do together to keep driving YMU forward as the leading, global business partner for premium talent.

“Linda’s appointment shows the scale of ambition for the Group – her value, knowledge and expertise will enable us to deliver an even better service to our clients and turbo charge our international growth.

“I’m looking forward to working with Mary and the exceptional YMU team to support their continued growth of individual’s brands on a global scale.”

Linda Yaccarino

Linda Yaccarino, YMU Group Chair, added: “We all know great talent when we see it. Whether it’s on stage, on the field, in front of and behind the camera, on every platform — you name it — epic performances stick with us. And for decades, I’ve supported top talent by growing global brands alongside premium content.

Added Yaccarino: “The Group represents some of the most exciting, elite-level talent in the global culture space who are supported by an unparalleled, industry-leading team of global experts. I’m looking forward to working with Mary and the exceptional YMU team to support their continued growth of individual’s brands on a global scale.”Music Business Worldwide