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Corey Wray
Assistant General Manager at Columbus Crew SC
Professional Background
Corey Wray has carved out a notable career in the world of sports management, primarily focusing on football (soccer) operations in North America. With a robust foundation in sport management education from Brock University, Corey has harnessed his passion for the sport and professional use of strategic management practices to excel in various roles within prestigious Major League Soccer (MLS) organizations.
Currently, Corey serves as the Assistant General Manager at Columbus Crew SC, where his responsibilities encompass both operational oversight and strategic planning aimed at elevating the team’s performance. In this role, he plays a crucial part in team operations, helping to shape the future of one of the league's most respected clubs. His leadership is instrumental as the Crew continues to build a competitive roster and engage the fan base in meaningful ways through innovative practices.
Prior to his role at Columbus Crew SC, Corey gained valuable experience with Toronto FC, a leading team in MLS, where he held multiple positions that honed his skills in management and operations. Starting his journey with the team as an intern in Marketing and Promotions, Corey showcased his talent for managing promotional campaigns that effectively engaged fans and improved the club’s visibility in a competitive sports market.
Elevating through the ranks, Corey later served as part of Game Operations and ultimately became the Assistant General Manager for Team Operations and Strategy. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operational aspects of the team, contributing to strategic planning, and enhancing the overall logistical execution of the team’s events. His tenure at Toronto FC allowed him to combine his deep understanding of sports with practical management skills, making a significant impact during important matches and events.
Education and Achievements
Corey Wray holds a Bachelor of Sport Management (BSM) degree from Brock University, an institution renowned for its focus on equipping students with the tools necessary for success in the dynamic field of sports management. The rigorous education program at Brock provided Corey with essential insights into sports economics, human resource management, sponsorship and marketing, and event organization, all of which have been pivotal in his professional journey.
Throughout his career, Corey has demonstrated a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. He has closely followed the latest trends in sports management, including the increasing importance of analytics in team operations and the role of community engagement in fostering a loyal fanbase. Through workshops, seminars, and hands-on experience, Corey has shaped himself into a well-rounded leader in the sports industry, ready to tackle the challenges of the ever-evolving landscape of professional soccer.
Achievements
Corey Wray has not only been instrumental in operational roles but has also contributed positively to the culture and performance of the teams he has been a part of. His strategic insights have helped to foster an environment of excellence and teamwork within the organizations, leading to enhanced performance on and off the field.
At Columbus Crew SC, Corey has introduced initiatives aimed at increasing organizational efficiency and enhancing the overall match-day experience for fans. These initiatives have resulted in greater audience engagement and satisfaction, improving the Crew's reputation both locally and nationally.
During his time at Toronto FC, Corey played a key role in the successful execution of major events and match days, which helped boost attendance and strengthened ties with the community. His groundwork in operational excellence contributed to Toronto FC’s reputation as a top-tier franchise in MLS, known for its passionate fan base and competitive spirit. His work in marketing and promotions throughout his time with the team helped push innovative ideas that resonated with the community and engaged new fans effectively.
As Corey continues to build on his successes, he remains committed to advancing the soccer industry in North America and enhancing the overall experience of fans, players, and staff alike. His focus on strategic planning, community outreach, and operational efficiency positions him as a notable figure in sports management, paving the way for a bright future within the industry.