Title: Sales & Events Specialist
Owensboro, KY, US, 42303
ABOUT CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI”) (Nasdaq: CHDN) has been creating extraordinary entertainment experiences for more than 150 years, beginning with one of the most iconic and enduring events in sports and entertainment—the Kentucky Derby. Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, CDI blends a rich legacy with a forward-looking approach to growth. Through the acquisition, development, and operation of live and historical racing entertainment venues, the expansion of online wagering services and other technology businesses, and the ownership and operation of regional casino gaming properties, CDI offers diverse career opportunities across the country. Our success is driven by dedicated team members who are passionate about delivering exceptional experiences, embracing innovation, and helping shape the future of entertainment.
JOB SUMMARY
Ellis Park Racing & Gaming and Owensboro Racing & Gaming are premier entertainment destinations offering live racing, gaming, dining, and event experiences in Western Kentucky. The Sales and Events Specialist supports both properties by driving event sales, coordinating event execution, and assisting with sponsorship and marketing initiatives. This role is responsible for generating revenue through event space sales, securing race sponsorships, and supporting the planning and execution of food and beverage and marketing events. The position serves as a key liaison between clients and internal departments, managing event inquiries, preparing proposals and contracts, coordinating logistics across departments, and ensuring seamless, high-quality event experiences that reflect the Company’s commitment to exceptional guest service.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The work environment characteristics described here represent those a Team Member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodations. This list of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive but a general illustration. It may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities deemed necessary.
- Sell and coordinate event space at both Ellis Park Racing & Gaming and Owensboro Racing & Gaming, including corporate events, social gatherings, and racing-related experiences
- Professionally respond to event inquiries via phone, email, and in-person communication
- Conduct property tours and assist prospective clients in selecting appropriate event spaces and related packages
- Prepare proposals, contracts, and Banquet Event Orders to ensure accurate communication of event
- Coordinate event logistics with Food & Beverage, Marketing, Racing, Security, and other departments
- Assist in executing food and beverage events, ensuring service standards and guest expectations
- Support marketing-led events, promotions, and property activations as needed
- Assist in securing and managing race sponsorships, including sponsor communication, fulfillment, and on-site coordination
- Maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, sponsors, and community partners to drive repeat business and new opportunities
- Attend and participate in BEO meetings, event meetings, and pre-event planning sessions
- Assist with event setup oversight and on-site coordination to ensure successful execution
- Track event sales activity, maintain accurate records, and support reporting needs
- Collaborate with leadership on sales initiatives, outreach efforts, and revenue-generating opportunities
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of event offerings, pricing, menus, and promotional opportunities
- Support special racing events, community events, and cross-property initiatives as assigned
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Provides outstanding guest service and builds strong client relationships
- Maintains a high level of professionalism and represents the Company positively at all times
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through
- Ability to work collaboratively across departments and properties
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Ability to learn event management and replated platforms
- Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays based on event needs
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 20 pounds
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or higher preferred
- Minimum of 2 years of group sales and event management experience
- Experience in gaming, entertainment, hospitality, or event-driven environments preferred
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission (KHRGC) license.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
This role operates in both office and operational environments and may require flexibility in scheduling to support live racing, gaming operations, and special events, including occasional evenings and weekends.
The employee is regularly required to sit, speak, hear, use hands, and reach with hands and arms. The employee may frequently be required to stand and walk. Specific vision abilities include close and distance vision, color and depth perception, and peripheral vision. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to twenty (20) pounds. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered by an associate while performing the essential functions of this job. When working in the office, the noise level is moderately quiet. When on the gaming floor, the noise level may be loud, and the employee will possibly be exposed to cigarette smoke on the gaming floor. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
Nearest Major Market: Owensboro