Senior Director, Human Resources

Churchill Downs Incorporated•Louisville, KY

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Director of Human Resources leads all HR functions for both properties in Louisville, KY (Derby City Gaming & Hotel and Derby City Gaming Downtown) including talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, ensuring compliance with employment laws and corporate standards, and more. This position partners with the People Leaders to drive employee engagement, retention, and overall business performance. The Sr HR leader will lead and develop the HR team while creating HR standards and programs to support organizational goals and a positive employee culture.

Requirements

Demonstrated successful management and leadership skills in human resources operations.
Strong strategic planning and execution skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Diverse and thorough knowledge of multiple human resource disciplines, including compensation practices, federal and state employment laws, employee and union relations, etc.
Comprehensive knowledge of gaming industry regulations and compliance requirements.
Knowledge of and experience with human resource information systems.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management or related field.
Ten to fifteen years of progressive human resources experience.
Must obtain valid gaming license, where applicable.

Nice To Haves

Additional certifications (i.e., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, etc.) preferred.
Experience in a gaming or hospitality field preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee the hiring, training, development, performance, and efficient management of Human Resources staff.
Plan, organize, assign, coach, and evaluate HR team workloads and performance.
Establish and maintain departmental standards, objectives, budgets, staffing plans, and administrative processes to ensure efficient HR operations.
Direct all property HR functions, including recruitment, onboarding, compensation, benefits, employee relations, performance management, training, and compliance.
Lead employee relations initiatives by evaluating workplace concerns, resolving grievances, conducting investigations, and partnering with Corporate HR, Legal, or outside counsel as needed.
Maintain open communication with Team Members and leadership to identify concerns, strengthen engagement, and foster a positive work environment.
Advise managers on employment practices, including interviewing, hiring, coaching, documentation, corrective action, performance management, and terminations.
Lead or partner with the General Manager to administer annual goal-setting, development planning, performance reviews, and compensation processes, ensuring consistency, accountability, and alignment with organizational objectives.
Partner with property leadership to develop and implement short- and long-term HR strategies that support business objectives and organizational culture.
Manage HR-related risks, including workplace investigations, discrimination claims, policy violations, and regulatory compliance matters.
Design and implement training, leadership development, succession planning, change management, retention, and organizational development initiatives.
Develop employee recognition, engagement, and retention programs that enhance morale and support a high-performance culture.
Analyze HR metrics, workforce trends, and HRIS data to identify opportunities and support informed business decisions.
Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, regulations, company policies, and HR best practices.
Maintain current knowledge of employment law, HR trends, and emerging technologies, applying best practices to policies, programs, and leadership guidance.
Perform other duties as assigned.