UTA has acquired Obi Asika’s U.K.-based Echo Location Talent Agency. Asika will serve as Co-Head of UTA’s U.K. office alongside Neil Warnock.

“Obi and his team have built an impressive business and have done excellent work taking their artists to the next level,” said UTA CEO Jeremy Zimmer. “He is a highly respected leader in the music industry and is well versed in the global entertainment marketplace. This acquisition further amplifies our efforts to expand UTA’s presence, and I know that alongside Neil, Obi’s leadership, drive and passion will be a vital addition not only to the U.K. office but for UTA at large.”

Asika will be responsible for driving UTA’s growing music business as well as expanding existing practice areas such as comedy, sports and marketing. He will report to Co-Heads of Worldwide Music Samantha Kirby Yoh and David Zedeck.

Senior agent Belinda Law and agents Myles Jessop, Tom Jones, Jack Clark, Hannah Shogbola, Kazia Davy and Ishsha Bourguet will join Asika at UTA.

Founded in 2012, Echo focuses on Afrobeat, grime, drill, hip-hop and electronic music. Top artists include Diplo, Galantis, Major Lazer, Marshmello and Charlie Sloth.

“Throughout the years Echo has been approached by several suitors, and as we evaluated the agency landscape, UTA’s strength, ingenuity and true commitment to their artists really stood out. UTA was ultimately the perfect fit,” Asika said.