General Manager

Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Churchill Downs Incorporated has expanded through the development of live and historical racing entertainment venues, the growth of the TwinSpires horse racing online wagering business and the operation and development of regional casino gaming properties. Churchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.

ABOUT TURFWAY PARK RACING & GAMING

Owned and operated byChurchill Downs, Turfway Park Racing & Gaming is the ultimate place to play in Northern Kentucky. Take a spin on over 800 of the latest and greatest games and experience the rush of seasonal live thoroughbred racing or simulcast horse racing year-round. Plus, with two great restaurants and live entertainment, the stage is always set for winning moments on and off the gaming floor. We even have your next business meeting, social event or annual awards covered with an amazing 17,000 square feet of event space that we customize to create the perfect experience.

JOB SUMMARY

The Gaming Operations VP/General Manager provides strategic and operational leadership for the Company's gaming, hospitality, food and beverage, entertainment, and ancillary operations across both the Turfway Racing & Gaming and Newport Racing & Gaming properties. This position is responsible for driving financial performance, operational excellence, regulatory compliance, guest satisfaction, and team member engagement while ensuring alignment with the Company's vision, values, and long‑term business objectives.

The VP/General Manager serves as the senior on‑site executive for both properties and is accountable for developing and executing business strategies that maximize revenue, profitability, market share, and guest loyalty. This role oversees all aspects of property operations, including pre‑opening and expansion initiatives, workforce planning, culture development, capital improvement projects, and the establishment of best‑in‑class operational standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide executive leadership and direction for all operational functions across both gaming properties.
• Maintain a thorough and current understanding of applicable gaming laws, regulations, and industry standards to ensure full compliance with all federal, state, local, racing, gaming, and company regulatory requirements.
• Develop and execute strategic business plans designed to achieve financial, operational, and guest service objectives.
• Drive revenue growth, profitability, market penetration, and operational efficiencies while maintaining exceptional guest experiences.
• Ensure effective stewardship of Company assets and resources while maintaining a strong focus on return on investment.
• Monitor financial performance of all areas against planned performance, taking action to improve performance where necessary.
• Ensures key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics are implemented and executed to evaluate performance, identify opportunities, and drive continuous improvement.
• Analyze financial statements, operational reports, market trends, and competitive activity to make informed business decisions.
• Lead annual operating plans, budgets, forecasts, and capital expenditure planning processes.
• Reviews and approves cost control reports, cost estimates, and manpower and facilities requirements forecast.
• Direct and oversee day‑to‑day operations through assigned department leaders; counseling, guiding to ensure consistent execution of Company standards and operating procedures.
• Ensure procedures followed for all operating activities with special emphasis on regulatory compliance, safety, employee relations, guest relations, internal controls, and the security of Company funds and assets.
• Develops specific short‑term and long‑term plans and programs, together with supporting budget requests and financial estimates.
• Collaborates regularly with Company‑wide operational departments and property teams to discuss comprehensive aspects of the operation, including financial performance, efficiency, and operational enhancements.
• Provides orientation and on‑the‑job training for direct reports and ensures that the duties, authority, and responsibility for each position are defined and understood.
• Develop and cultivate team member culture centered on guest service, engagement, safety, inclusion, integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Assess operations (internal practices, gaming procedures, promotions) and recommend appropriate action(s) in accordance with a sound marketing plan.
• Establish and maintain effective channels of communication upward, downward, and laterally.
• Uphold the highest personal and professional ethical standards and motivate others to do the same.
• Ensure that all assigned departments are staffed with competent team members who have the skills and aptitude to meet our standards of excellence.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Comprehensive knowledge of gaming, hospitality, hotel, food and beverage, and entertainment operations.
• Competent understanding of gaming regulations, compliance requirements, internal controls, and risk management practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex, multi‑department and multi‑property operations.
• Advanced financial management, budgeting, forecasting, and business analysis skills.
• Proven ability to interpret operational and financial data and translate insights into actionable business strategies and operational improvements.
• Exceptional leadership, coaching, team building, and talent development skills.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational development, and change management capabilities.
• Outstanding verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize competing demands and make sound decisions in a fast‑paced dynamic environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to guest service excellence and continuous improvement.
• Substantial marketing acumen and ability to apply knowledge to gaming operations.
• Excellent attention to detail, ensuring reports are accurate, complete, and deadline driven.

REGULATORY

• Ability to obtain and maintain all racing and/or gaming licenses as required in applicable jurisdiction(s).
• Must successfully pass all required background investigations and licensing requirements.
• Must be at least twenty‑one (21) years of age.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field (MBA level preferred).
• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive leadership experience in gaming, hospitality, or related industries.
• Prior experience as a Casino General Manager, Property General Manager, Vice President of Operations, or equivalent senior leadership role required.
• Multi‑property leadership experience is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success leading large‑scale gaming and hospitality operations with responsibility for financial performance, regulatory compliance, team member engagement, and guest satisfaction.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

• Position entails extended periods of sitting and standing.
• While performing the duties of this job, may frequently use hands to reach, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
• May be required to work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Occasional lifting (up to 50 pounds).
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
• The work environment may vary in levels of crowds, flashing lights, and may include exposure to smoke in various areas of the properties.
• Role is onsite unless on business travel.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

Work With Us

Churchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.