cbuzz: Derrick R. Clay, Columbus Chamber of Commerce: We Are Stronger Together

In this episode, we sit down with Derrick R. Clay, President & CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. The Columbus Chamber of Commerce is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that serves more than 2,400 organizations. Founded in 1884, the Columbus Chamber is dedicated to fostering prosperity and growth in the Columbus Region Business Community through connections, resources, and advocacy. Serving as the epicenter of the Columbus Region’s business community, the Columbus Chamber provides an interconnected ecosystem where businesses collaborate to eliminate barriers to prosperity, creating a vibrant environment for enterprises throughout the Columbus Region. Together, we make our region an exceptional business destination.

Derrick R. Clay, President & CEO, Columbus Chamber of Commerce

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.

To learn more about The Columbus Chamber of Commerce, visit https://columbus.org/

Tune in today as Derrick R. Clay, President & CEO, of The Columbus Chamber of Commerce, sits down with cbuzz host Mikaela Hunt to discuss: We Are Stronger Together!

A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members.

Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller. You can learn about Capital University here.

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