Human Resources Business Partner

Churchill Downs Incorporated • Louisville, KY

29d • Onsite

About The Position

The Human Resources Business Partner provides day-to-day Human Resources support across Churchill Downs Racetrack and Trackside, partnering with leaders and employees to deliver practical, responsive Human Resources services that support business operations. This role executes core Human Resources functions, including talent acquisition, onboarding and offboarding, employee relations, performance management, payroll and benefits coordination, leave administration, compliance, and Human Resources operations. Working closely with the Senior Director, Human Resources and Corporate Human Resources, the Human Resources Business Partner helps ensure consistent execution of enterprise programs, policies, and services. Success in this role is built on sound judgment, operational excellence, exceptional customer service, and a visible presence across both properties.

Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Kentucky racing license and successfully complete all applicable background check requirements.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive Human Resources experience supporting a fast-paced operational environment.
• Demonstrated experience across talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, compliance, and Human Resources operations.
• Strong business acumen and operational mindset.
• High emotional intelligence, objectivity, and sound judgment.
• Ability to build trusted partnerships through credibility and responsiveness.
• Process-oriented with a commitment to consistency and continuous improvement.
• Strong employee relations and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent communications, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Visible, approachable, and committed to exceptional service.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting salaried, hourly, seasonal, part-time, and union-represented employees preferred.
• Experience in hospitality, entertainment, sports, gaming, manufacturing, or other operational environments preferred.
• SHRM-CP, PHR, or equivalent certification preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Partner with department leaders to provide responsive day-to-day Human Resources support that promotes consistent application of Human Resources programs, policies, and practices.
• Build trusted relationships through a visible, responsive presence across Churchill Downs Racetrack and Trackside while partnering with the Senior Director, Human Resources on complex or high-risk matters.
• Coordinate the full-cycle recruiting process, including job postings, candidate communications, interview scheduling, offers, pre-employment requirements, onboarding and offboarding.
• Coordinate seasonal hiring initiatives that support spring and fall live racing meets.
• Partner with hiring managers and Corporate talent acquisition to support timely hiring while delivering a positive candidate experience.
• Conduct onboarding and offboarding activities to ensure a seamless employee experience.
• Support employee engagement, recognition, and hiring events.
• Serve as the primary Human Resources resource for routine employee relations matters, including attendance, corrective action, and performance management.
• Conduct routine workplace investigations, fact-finding, and documentation while partnering with the Senior Director on complex matters.
• Coordinate the administration of FMLA and other protected leaves of absence in partnership with Corporate Human Resources.
• Partner with the Security team to support workers' compensation administration, return-to-work coordination, and employee case management.
• Maintain compliance with company policies, employment laws, and Human Resources practices.
• Deliver responsive day-to-day Human Resources support across both properties.
• Partner with Corporate Payroll to administer payroll, benefits, leave management, and enterprise Human Resources programs.
• Maintain Human Resources records, systems, and data integrity while ensuring compliance with employment, payroll, benefits, leave administration, and regulatory requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve Human Resources processes and operational efficiency.
• Participate in a flexible work schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and live racing and other major events.
• Other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level