from Aaron Portzline of Puck-Rakers,

Bill Zito, a prominent NHL agent the last two decades, has divested his interest in Acme World Sports LLC to join the Blue Jackets as assistant general manager, The Dispatch has learned.

The hiring will be announced by the club later today.

Zito will head the Blue Jackets’ pro scouting department, and have a heavy hand in college scouting. He has represented NHL players such as Tim Thomas, Brian Rafalski, Sami Salo, Kimmo Timonen, Ville Leino, Valtteri Filppula, Tuukka Rask and John Madden, as well as current Blue Jackets defenseman James Wisniewski.

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added 1:03pm,

COLUMBUS, OHIO – Columbus Blue Jackets General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen announced today that Bill Zito, the founder and former president of Acme World Sports, has joined the National Hockey League club as an assistant general manager.

“Bill Zito is an astute businessman who understands all facets of our game and will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Columbus Blue Jackets,” said Kekalainen. “I have known Bill for many years and believe he will be a great addition to our hockey operations staff as we continue our efforts to build a championship-caliber team.”

“It is with sincere humility and appreciation that I have accepted this opportunity to work with John Davidson, Jarmo Kekalainen, Chris MacFarland and the Blue Jackets staff,” said Zito. “I am excited and focused to begin this new journey.”