Brian Utoft to Become VAA Chief Executive in January
The Minneapolis-based firm announces a leadership transition effective January 1, 2027.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in People
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Brian Utoft will assume the role of chief executive officer at VAA on January 1, 2027. This leadership change marks the conclusion of a three-year succession process for the Minneapolis-headquartered firm.
Why it matters
The transition allows long-time CEO Jeff Schrock to pivot his professional focus toward client work, strategic growth, and business development initiatives. This move maintains continuity while shifting executive oversight to Utoft, who has been with the company since 2010.
Jeff Schrock served as chief executive officer for 13 years following his initial hiring 20 years ago. Brian Utoft, the incoming CEO, previously led the company's General Arrangement department.
The players
Brian Utoft
He is the current head of the General Arrangement department at VAA who will step into the CEO role in 2027.
Jeff Schrock
He is the outgoing chief executive officer who led VAA for 13 years and will now focus on client development.
The details
Utoft has been a member of the VAA team since 2010 and recently completed an executive MBA from Iowa State University in 2025. During Schrock's tenure, the company expanded its physical footprint by opening new offices in Sioux Falls and New Orleans.
Timeline
Brian Utoft joined the VAA team in 2010.
Brian Utoft earned an executive MBA from Iowa State University in 2025.
Brian Utoft assumes the role of CEO on January 1, 2027.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition marks the formal completion of the three-year succession process at the firm. The move mirrors industry trends where veteran leaders pivot to client-facing roles to ensure strategic growth after long-term executive service.
Clients of the firm can expect continued engagement from Jeff Schrock as he transitions into a role dedicated to business development. The change in executive management is intended to sustain the strategic growth trajectory established in Minneapolis and other locations.
The takeaway
Effective leadership succession planning ensures that institutional knowledge is preserved while enabling new executives to bring fresh perspectives to the firm. Readers can observe how professional development, such as Utoft's recent MBA, often serves as a precursor to internal promotion.
Further reading
For more information on leadership transitions in the region, visit the People section.
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