Derek Smith

Derek Smith has been working in the field of arena and stadium management for over ten years. Derek began their career in 2008 as a Director at Madison Square Garden, where they were responsible for overseeing a 19 million dollar operating budget and 5 million dollar capital budget. During their time at Madison Square Garden, Derek was also responsible for managing 13 FT and 3 PT positions, as well as 150 FT union employees and over 375 PT union employees. In 2013, Derek left Madison Square Garden to take on the role of Associate General Manager, Nationwide Arena Management at Columbus Blue Jackets. In this role, Derek is responsible for the daily approval and sign-off on all purchase orders and invoices for all purchases up to 25K, as well as the daily approval of union payroll for all full-time and part-time employees. Additionally, Derek is responsible for managing the department Petty Cash, totaling $5,500. Derek also assists the EVP, SVP & General Manager, Assistant General Manager, and Vice President of Building Operations with projects and duties as requested. Furthermore, Derek is responsible for developing the Capital needs list and working with other departments in creating Capital and Operating budget costs and research analysis. Additionally, Derek manages 5 union trades directly for all event set-ups, scheduling, R & M, as well as discipline and training, arbitrations, and grievances. Finally, Derek is responsible for obtaining architects, expeditors, and general contractors for research, bids, permits, and construction of building

Derek Smith received their Bachelor's degree in Sport Management from St. John's University. Derek is certified from OSHA in OSHA 10 Hour Safety Course.

Derek Smith reports to Mike Gatto, GM, Nationwide Arena Management. They work with Cait Schumann - Associate General Manager, Ticketing & Administration, Nationwide Arena Management, Mark Greiner - Assistant GM, Operations, Nationwide Arena Management, and Nick Waclawski - Director, Arena Operations.