Nick DeLuco Named GM / SVP At New Hamilton Arena

Venue developer and management company Oak View Group and Live Nation Canada have named industry veteran Nick DeLuco as senior vice President and general manager of Hamilton Arena, the $200 million-plus renovation of FirstOntario Centre set to open in late 2025.

DeLuco joins Hamilton Arena from Oilers Entertainment Group in Edmonton, Alberta, where he served as vice president of live entertainment and events.

At Hamilton Arena, DeLuco will be responsible for overseeing operations at the 18,000-seat arena and providing strategic leadership, including helping attract top-tier artists, live performances and events.

“With a successful track record in venue operations, event management and marketing, Nick will guide our delivery of outstanding entertainment and unrivalled premium experiences,” said Wayne Zronik, President of Business Operations, Live Nation Canada. “We’re thrilled to have Nick on board to spearhead the venue’s future vision and help cement Hamilton as a must-play stop on the global touring circuit.”

With Oilers Entertainment Group, DeLuco managed all aspects of live entertainment and event management for the ICE District, including Rogers Place, ICE District Plaza and Fan Park @ ICE District, according to the announcement, where he helped set venue records for direct event revenue and concerts hosted last year while establishing lucrative multi-year partnerships to ensure bottom line success for years to come.

“Nick’s expertise in managing large-scale Canadian venues spanning more than 15 years, coupled with his experience in overseeing renovation projects, will position Nick to play a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Hamilton Arena and its future success,” said Francesca Bodie, Chief Operating Officer, Oak View Group. “This groundbreaking investment will unlock substantial economic momentum and serve as a key driver for revitalizing Hamilton’s downtown core. We’re pleased to have Nick at the forefront of this effort.” Oak View Group is parent company to Pollstar and VenuesNow magazines.

Prior to his role in Edmonton, DeLuco was general manager for the Avenir Centre in New Brunswick where he oversaw the completion of the $113 million facility and plaza. He also served as assistant general manager at Kingston’s Slush Puppie Place, formerly K-Rock Centre, where he additionally held key roles in marketing, ticketing, and event management.

“This is an exciting time for the Hamilton region, and I look forward to working alongside this dedicated team, focused on building a future that enhances the guest experience and uplifts the surrounding community,” said DeLuco. “Our goal is to elevate the experience for artists, fans, and partners as we deliver a premier sports and entertainment destination in southern Ontario.”

The new Hamilton Arena promises modern upgrades, including premium seating options, state-of-the-art acoustics, improved sightlines, upgraded concourses, and exclusive clubs, suites, and artist lounges.