DIRECTOR OF CASINO OPERATIONS

Saratoga Harness Racing, Inc. • State College, PA

23d • Onsite

About The Position

Join the excitement at Happy Valley Casino, Central Pennsylvania’s newest gaming destination! Opened in May 2026, our state-of-the-art casino features more than 600 slot machines and 30 table games, delivering an exceptional entertainment experience in the heart of Happy Valley. As our Director of Casino Operations, you'll have the unique opportunity to help shape the future of a growing organization located just minutes from Penn State University, leading a dynamic team in an energetic and fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• College degree preferred but not required.
• Minimum 8-10 years progressive casino operations experience.
• Minimum 5 years senior leadership experience overseeing multiple gaming departments.
• Extensive knowledge of Slot Operations
• Extensive knowledge of Table Games Operations
• Extensive knowledge of Players Club and Loyalty Programs
• Extensive knowledge of Player Development
• Extensive knowledge of Gaming Analytics
• Extensive knowledge of Revenue Management
• Extensive knowledge of Internal Controls
• Extensive knowledge of PGCB Regulations
• Extensive knowledge of Title 31 / AML Requirements
• Demonstrated success managing multimillion-dollar gaming revenue operations.
• Proven ability to lead large teams through operational and cultural change.
• Strong financial, analytical, and strategic planning skills.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, labor management, and casino marketing initiatives.
• Experience managing VIP programs and high-value player relationships.
• Must maintain a Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Key Employee License.
• Must be available to work flexible schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays as business needs require.
• Must be able to lead on-property operational activities during peak business periods.
• Must demonstrate the highest level of professionalism, confidentiality, ethics, and integrity.

Nice To Haves

• Strategic Thinking and Planning
• Financial Acumen
• Operational Excellence
• Revenue Optimization
• Regulatory Compliance
• Talent Development and Coaching
• Change Leadership
• Executive-Level Communication
• Relationship Management
• Guest Service Focus
• Sound Decision Making
• Accountability and Ownership

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement gaming strategies that maximize casino profitability and market competitiveness.
• Establish annual operating plans, departmental goals, revenue targets, and performance standards.
• Participate in strategic planning and property-wide initiatives as a member of the executive leadership team.
• Evaluate gaming performance trends and recommend operational improvements and investment opportunities.
• Lead change initiatives that improve business results and guest experiences.
• Direct all Table Games, Slot Operations, Players Club, and Player Development functions.
• Ensure optimal staffing, scheduling, and operational coverage throughout gaming operations.
• Monitor gaming activity, floor performance, hold percentages, game mix, and operational efficiency.
• Evaluate slot product performance and make recommendations regarding game placements and acquisitions.
• Ensure efficient management of pits, table limits, staffing models, and game protection procedures.
• Maintain the highest standards of operational execution and guest service across all gaming areas.
• Drive gaming revenue growth through effective operational leadership, product optimization, and player reinvestment strategies.
• Monitor daily, weekly, monthly, and annual gaming KPIs.
• Analyze labor costs, departmental expenses, gaming performance metrics, and player reinvestment programs.
• Develop and manage annual operating budgets and capital expenditure plans.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability while maintaining compliance and service standards.
• Lead all player development initiatives and VIP relationship management activities.
• Establish player segmentation strategies and reinvestment guidelines.
• Develop programs designed to acquire, retain, and reactivate high-value guests.
• Foster strong relationships with key players through direct interaction and exceptional service.
• Collaborate with Marketing to develop promotions, events, and guest engagement programs.
• Ensure full compliance with all Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board regulations.
• Maintain strict adherence to Internal Controls, Title 31 / AML requirements, Responsible Gaming standards, and Company policies and procedures.
• Partner with Compliance, Surveillance, Security, Finance, and Internal Audit to maintain regulatory readiness.
• Participate in audits, investigations, and regulatory reviews as required.
• Promote strong game protection and asset protection practices throughout the operation.
• Lead, develop, coach, and mentor all gaming operations leaders.
• Create a culture focused on accountability, service, teamwork, and operational excellence.
• Oversee recruitment, succession planning, performance management, and employee development.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and leadership development initiatives.
• Foster employee engagement and positive workplace culture.
• Champion a guest-first philosophy throughout gaming operations.
• Ensure exceptional service standards are consistently maintained.
• Resolve escalated guest concerns in a professional and timely manner.
• Represent the casino during VIP events, community functions, and special property events.
• Develop departmental budgets and revenue forecasts.
• Monitor gaming performance and operational expenses.
• Recommend capital improvements and technology investments.
• Ensure responsible stewardship of company assets and resources.

Benefits

• Compensation will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and demonstrated leadership capabilities, with significant opportunities for professional advancement as the organization continues to expand.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Associate degree