DDA Bolsters LA Team with Two Key Entertainment Hires

DDA, a global firm focused on content public relations and corporate communications, hired two experienced professionals for its Los Angeles office this week. Matt Andrée Wiltens joins as senior vice president of U.S. Entertainment and Strategy, coming from the talent agency Gersh. Ryan Smith takes on the role of director of domestic film and series accounts. The company made the announcements to support its growth in the entertainment sector, where demand for specialized PR services continues to rise.

Background

DDA operates offices around the world and helps companies in media, entertainment, and technology manage their public image. The firm has built a reputation for working with content creators, studios, and streaming platforms on campaigns that reach wide audiences. In recent years, DDA expanded its presence in key markets like London, New York, and now Los Angeles, the heart of the U.S. film and TV industry.

Los Angeles serves as a hub for major studios, production companies, and talent agencies. Firms like DDA play a central role in shaping how movies, TV shows, and digital content launch to the public. They handle press releases, media outreach, and strategy for awards seasons and global releases. With streaming services growing and traditional Hollywood adapting, PR teams face new challenges like social media buzz and international markets.

Matt Andrée Wiltens spent over a decade at Gersh, a well-known talent agency that represents actors, writers, and directors. There, he managed communications for high-profile clients and oversaw campaigns for films and series. Ryan Smith, meanwhile, worked in film publicity, focusing on domestic accounts for theatrical releases and streaming titles. Both bring hands-on experience from the fast-paced world of entertainment marketing.

DDA's decision to hire locally in LA comes amid a busy period for the industry. Production has ramped up after strikes in 2023, and studios are preparing for a slate of big releases in 2026. The firm already works with clients on projects ranging from independent films to blockbuster franchises.

Key Details

Matt Andrée Wiltens steps into his new role with a focus on overall U.S. entertainment strategy. He will lead teams that develop long-term plans for clients, including talent representation tie-ins and cross-platform promotions. At Gersh, Wiltens handled accounts for awards contenders and managed crisis communications during high-stakes releases. His move to DDA allows him to work directly with studios and producers rather than just talent.

Ryan Smith's Role in Film and Series

Ryan Smith will oversee domestic accounts for films and TV series. This includes coordinating press for U.S. launches, building relationships with journalists, and tracking coverage metrics. Smith has a track record with mid-sized studios and indie distributors, where he helped secure features in major outlets like newspapers and online platforms. His position fills a gap at DDA, which has sought to deepen its film expertise.

"Matt brings deep knowledge of the entertainment landscape and a proven ability to craft winning strategies for clients," a DDA spokesperson said. "Ryan's expertise in film and series will strengthen our domestic offerings."

The hires were effective immediately, with both reporting to DDA's U.S. leadership. The company plans to grow its LA team further, targeting roles in digital media and international outreach. Salaries and contract details remain private, in line with industry norms.

DDA's LA office, located in a central entertainment district, now counts over 20 staff members. It collaborates closely with the firm's global network, sharing insights on trends like AI in production and short-form content.

What This Means

These hires position DDA to compete more effectively with larger PR agencies in Hollywood. Clients gain access to executives who understand both agency and studio sides of the business. For Matt Andrée Wiltens, the role offers a broader platform to influence industry-wide strategies, potentially leading to bigger client wins.

Ryan Smith's appointment signals DDA's intent to handle more film and series work domestically. With theaters rebounding and streaming wars ongoing, studios need reliable partners for consistent coverage. This could mean more DDA-led campaigns during events like the Oscars or Emmy seasons.

The entertainment PR field remains competitive, with firms vying for spots on major projects. DDA's moves suggest confidence in steady work ahead, even as budgets fluctuate. Talent like Wiltens and Smith may attract new business from producers looking for fresh approaches.

Broader industry shifts play a role too. More content heads to global audiences, requiring PR that navigates multiple time zones and cultures. DDA's expanded LA presence helps coordinate these efforts from the source.

For employees, the hires open doors for collaboration within the firm. Junior staff can learn from veterans who have navigated strikes, pandemics, and digital disruptions. DDA has not ruled out additional recruitment, watching for opportunities in emerging areas like virtual reality content.

The entertainment sector relies on strong communications to succeed. With these additions, DDA strengthens its lineup to meet client needs in a changing market.