The Bay Park Conservancy Hires Three New Team Members to Accommodate Continued Growth

Derick Kitson, Mykenzie Johnson, and Jordan Allison join The Bay team to support the growing park

The Bay Park Conservancy is thrilled to announce the hiring of three new team members to support the park’s continued growth, Derick Kitson, Mykenzie Johnson, and Jordan Allison.

“We’re delighted to welcome Derick, Mykenzie, and Jordan to The Bay team,” says Bill Waddill, Chief Operating Officer at The Bay Park Conservancy. “As we look forward to the opening of this iconic public park in October, we’re grateful for the support of our dedicated and hardworking team.” 

In a newly created role, Derick Kitson joins as Director of Operations and will oversee all aspects of operations for The Bay Park, helping to manage, maintain and operate the park as it grows. Kitson will work closely with the leadership and Activation & Programming team to ensure a delightful experience for all park guests. 

Kitson, a certified Facility Management Professional, spent the last eight years working with the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall as Director of Technical Production & Facility Manager and later as General Manager. During that time, Kitson managed all operations and oversaw facilities, technical and production, safety and security, patron relations, IT, and risk management. 

Mykenzie Johnson joins the team as an Activation & Program Manager, strengthening and expanding The Bay’s free programmatic offerings to the community. A Sarasota Native, Johnson graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Events, Tourism, and Recreation Management, and is currently working toward a master’s degree in Sports Management. 

Jordan Allison, a longtime Sarasota resident, joins the team as Development Project Manager and will work closely with Chief Operating Officer Bill Waddill to build the growing park, manage design and construction teams, and coordinate with contractors and project consultants. 

The Bay Park Conservancy expects to open Phase 1 of the park in October 2022, which will include award-winning features such as the Common Ground lawns, the Mangrove Bayou Walkway and outdoor Reading Room, an ADA-accessible paddle launch, an artistic playspace and concession pavilion, restored and preserved mangroves and shorelines, and more.