Derrick R. Clay

President and CEO

Derrick R. Clay serves as the President and CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, where he is dedicated to driving prosperity and growth in the Columbus Region business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. An established leader with deep ties to the Columbus community and extensive experience in strategic development and organizational growth, Derrick brings a forward-thinking approach to advancing the Chamber’s vision as the driving force behind a thriving Columbus economy.

Derrick’s career began in the Ohio legislature, where he assisted key policymakers and played an active role in significant legislative efforts. He transitioned into leadership roles in political campaigns, serving as Field Director for the Ohio Democratic Party and State Director for Al Gore’s presidential campaign. In 2004, Derrick became a partner at Ohio’s first African American lobbying firm, New Visions Group, LLC. As CEO, he led the firm to success before its acquisition by Shumaker Advisors in 2022, where he then served as Senior Vice President, delivering government relations expertise to statewide and local clients.

A recognized leader in the Columbus community, Derrick has extensive nonprofit board experience. He currently serves as an executive committee board member for The Athletic Club of Columbus and has also served on the boards of the Columbus Symphony, Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Committee, Action for Children, and the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Commission.

Having called Columbus home for nearly 30 years, Derrick is passionate about the region’s continued growth and success. His deep commitment to collaboration, innovation, and economic inclusion reflects his genuine excitement for the future of the Columbus Region business community.

In the News:

derrickclay@columbus.org