Churchill Downs, one of the most storied racetracks in the country, has appointed a new member to its board of directors. The new appointee, Kim Rood, is a business executive with over 25 years of experience in the racing industry. In her new role, she will help steer Churchill Downs as it continues to grow and expand its operations. Kim joins a board that includes several well-known figures in horse racing—including two-time Kentucky Derby winner and current Horse Chartered owner Todd Pletcher and former Belmont Stakes winner Patrick Valenzuela. Churchill Downs is one of the most iconic and historic racing venues in the United States, and Kim’s appointment shows just how committed the track is to making sure it stays on top of its game.
Churchill Downs appoints new member to board of directors
Churchill Downs appointed a new member to its board of directors today, naming banking executive Tom W. Staley as the newest director.
“Tom is an experienced executive with a deep understanding of our business and industry,” said Churchill Downs Chairman and CEO Bob Baffert. “He will be an valuable asset on our board of directors as we continue to focus on delivering shareholder value.”
Staley joins the board from BB&T Corporation, where he served as senior vice president and head of corporate finance. He has more than 20 years of experience in financial services, including roles at SunTrust Banks and Wachovia Securities.
The new board member’s background and experience
Churchill Downs has appointed Tim Gardner, a former senior executive with Harrah’s Entertainment Corporation, to its board of directors. Gardner joins the board from an industry background that includes more than 30 years of experience in casino gaming and hospitality operations. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, including expertise in marketing, strategy development, and financial reporting.
Gardner has worked at Harrah’s Entertainment Corporation for 26 years, most recently as president and chief operating officer. In that role, he managed all aspects of the company’s casino resorts across the United States. Gardner also played a leading role in developing Harrah’s new $1 billion resort in Tunica County, Mississippi.
His appointment comes at a time when Churchill Downs is facing increasing competition from casinos across the United States. In light of this competition, Gardner will be instrumental in helping the track adapt its strategies and plans for future growth.
Churchill Downs plans for the future
Churchill Downs officials have named a new member to its board of directors. The Track has tapped attorney David W. Foster to join the other directors, who are J. Paul Brown, president and CEO of Churchill Downs Inc.; Mark R. Massa, CEO of The Jockey Club; and Anthony J. Asher III, chairman emeritus of Churchill Downs LLC and a principal owner in the Eclipse Stakes partnership. Foster is a partner with King & Spalding LLP, where he specializes in corporate law, securities regulation and mergers and acquisitions. He also is vice chairman of the board for the Greater Louisville Jewish Federation and a director of the Louisville Ballet Company Foundation.
Conclusion
Churchill Downs has appointed Lisa Gartrell to its board of directors. Ms. Gartrell, a 20-year veteran of the racing industry, most recently served as senior vice president at Wynn Resorts Limited, where she was responsible for global marketing and customer experience initiatives including casino operations in Macau and Singapore.