Senior Director of Communications

Churchill Downs Incorporated•Lyndon, KY

About The Position

The Senior Director of Communications is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive internal and external communications strategies that protect and enhance the reputation, brand, and strategic priorities of Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI”). This role serves as a key strategic advisor to senior leadership and collaborates closely with Investor Relations, Government Relations, Legal, Human Resources, and business unit leaders to ensure consistent, compelling, and accurate messaging across all stakeholders. The Senior Director will lead corporate communications, executive messaging, media relations, crisis communications, and content development, while supporting public company disclosure requirements and stakeholder engagement at the local, state, and federal levels.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, English, Political Science, or a related field required, advanced degree preferred.
10+ years of progressive experience in corporate communications, public relations, or a related field, preferably within a public company or highly regulated environment.
Experience working with Government Relations, public affairs, or regulatory communications strongly preferred.
Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, including long-form editorial and publication leadership experience.
Proven experience advising senior executives and working directly with C-suite leaders.
Strong understanding of media relations, crisis communications, and reputation management.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while exercising sound judgment and discretion.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement enterprise-wide communications strategies aligned with CDI’s business objectives, values, and brand.
Partner with senior leadership to craft executive messaging, speeches, presentations, talking points, and written communications for internal and external audiences.
Ensure consistent tone, voice, and messaging across all communication channels and platforms.
Collaborate closely with the Investor Relations team to support earnings communications, investor presentations, press releases, and shareholder materials.
Assist in the development of messaging for quarterly earnings calls, annual reports, investor days, and other public disclosures.
Ensure communications align with public company requirements, disclosure standards, and regulatory guidelines.
Partner with Government Relations and Legal teams to support messaging related to legislative, regulatory, and public policy initiatives.
Develop communications strategies and materials for engagement with elected officials, regulators, industry partners, and community stakeholders.
Provide guidance on sensitive issues that may impact CDI’s public standing or operating environment.
Serve as a primary contact for media inquiries in coordination with senior leadership and external advisors.
Develop proactive media strategies and manage reactive communications, including crisis and issues management.
Oversee press releases, statements, and external announcements to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with corporate priorities.
Develop and execute internal communications strategies that engage employees, reinforce company culture, and support organizational change.
Partner with Human Resources and leadership to communicate key initiatives, updates, and change-management efforts.
Support communications related to talent, culture, and employee engagement initiatives.
Lead and mentor communications team members and manage external agencies or consultants as needed.
Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on communications strategy, risk, and reputation management.
Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure alignment across CDI’s business units and corporate functions.