Ironman CEO Balances Training for Mountains and Triathlons with Running a Global Events Business

Scott DeRue oversees The Ironman Group, which hosts the Ironman Triathlon Series, City2Surf, the Epic Series mountain bike races, and other events.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Scott DeRue, the CEO of The Ironman Group, starts his days training to climb mountains and ends them watching 'Schitt's Creek' episodes with his wife. DeRue oversees a global events business that includes the Ironman Triathlon Series, City2Surf, and the Epic Series mountain bike races. He has an eclectic background, having worked in private equity, investment banking, and consulting before becoming a business school professor and then joining Equinox and Ironman.

Why it matters

DeRue's story highlights how a passion for fitness and creating transformative experiences for people can lead to a successful career in the sports and events industry. His ability to balance intense physical training with running a global business provides an inspiring example of how to integrate personal interests and professional responsibilities.

The details

DeRue wakes up between 6-7am and aims for 8 hours of sleep per night. Depending on the day, he trains in the morning or evening, often preparing for mountain climbing or triathlon events. He arrives at the office around 7:30am and spends the first hour mapping out his top priorities for the day. As the CEO of The Ironman Group, DeRue has a variety of meetings throughout the day, including some untraditional ones like group runs with partners and athletes. For lunch, his favorite spot is the Clockwork Cafe in Park City, Utah. DeRue typically leaves the office around 7pm, unless it's an event day when the schedule can start at 4am and go until 2am. In the evenings, DeRue enjoys cooking out with his wife and watching comedy shows like 'Schitt's Creek' before going to bed around 9:30pm.

  • DeRue wakes up between 6-7am.
  • DeRue arrives at the office around 7:30am.
  • DeRue typically leaves the office around 7pm, unless it's an event day.
  • DeRue is usually in bed by 9:30pm and asleep by 10pm.

The players

Scott DeRue

The CEO of The Ironman Group, which hosts the Ironman Triathlon Series, City2Surf, the Epic Series mountain bike races, and other events.

The Ironman Group

The largest operator of global participation sports events, including the Ironman Triathlon Series, City2Surf, and the Epic Series mountain bike races.

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What they’re saying

“I love creating experiences that transform people's lives for the better.”

— Scott DeRue, CEO, The Ironman Group (Business Insider)

The takeaway

DeRue's story demonstrates how a passion for fitness and creating transformative experiences can lead to a successful career in the sports and events industry. His ability to balance intense physical training with running a global business provides an inspiring example of integrating personal interests and professional responsibilities.