Churchill Downs Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Churchill Downs has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, finance, human resources, legal, digital wagering, and regional racing.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Churchill Downs is dedicated to preserving racing traditions while expanding its gaming and entertainment portfolio across multiple states, creating integrated entertainment destinations.

Leadership Roles at Churchill Downs

  • Chief Executive Officer - William Carstanjen
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Marcia Dall
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - William Mudd
  • President - Twinspires - Michael Lilly
  • President Fairgrounds Racing, Gaming, OTBs - Douglas Shipley
  • Owner, Chief Marketing Officer - Ed Reese
  • Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP, Human Resources - Katherine Armstrong
  • Executive Vice President & General Counsel - Bradley Blackwell
  • William Carstanjen - Chief Executive Officer

    William Carstanjen, the Chief Executive Officer at Churchill Downs, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution across its diverse portfolio of racing, gaming, and entertainment assets. Carstanjen guides the enterprise in its evolution from a thoroughbred racing heritage to a diversified gaming and entertainment leader, overseeing the integration of new acquisitions and the development of regional casino properties and historical racing machine facilities. This leadership role involves ensuring alignment with the company's mission to preserve racing traditions while embracing technological innovation in gaming and digital platforms. By focusing on strategic growth initiatives and market expansion, William Carstanjen drives the company's position as a premier operator in the racing and gaming industry, enhancing shareholder value and solidifying its market presence across multiple states. The Chief Executive Officer's vision shapes the company's approach to creating integrated entertainment destinations that attract a broad customer base.
    William Carstanjen

    Marcia Dall - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Marcia Dall, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Churchill Downs, manages the company's financial health, strategic investments, and capital allocation. Dall oversees all financial planning, accounting, treasury, and investor relations functions, ensuring fiscal responsibility and driving profitable growth across the organization's racing, gaming, and entertainment segments. This critical role involves analyzing financial performance, identifying opportunities for cost optimization, and securing funding for strategic expansion initiatives, including acquisitions and property development. By providing financial leadership and strategic insights, Marcia Dall supports the company's long-term objectives and its commitment to delivering value to shareholders. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is essential for navigating the complex financial landscape of the gaming and entertainment industry and maintaining the company's strong financial foundation.
    Marcia Dall

    William Mudd - President & Chief Operating Officer

    William Mudd, the President & Chief Operating Officer at Churchill Downs, executes the company's day-to-day operations and oversees the integration of its various business segments. Mudd manages the operational performance of racetracks, casinos, and online wagering platforms, ensuring seamless integration and optimal customer experience across all properties and digital channels. This role involves driving efficiency and operational excellence, particularly in managing the complex logistics of major racing events and casino gaming floors. By coordinating efforts across departments, William Mudd ensures that the company's diverse assets function cohesively to deliver on its strategic objectives. The President & Chief Operating Officer's focus on operational execution is critical for maintaining the company's reputation for quality and reliability in the competitive racing and gaming landscape, supporting the overall growth and profitability of Churchill Downs.
    William Mudd

    Michael Lilly - President - Twinspires

    Michael Lilly, the President - Twinspires at Churchill Downs, directs the strategy and operations of the company's premier online wagering platform. Lilly oversees the development and enhancement of the Twinspires brand, focusing on providing customers with seamless access to horse racing, sports betting, and online casino gaming through digital channels. This role involves driving innovation in user experience, expanding market reach within authorized jurisdictions, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations governing online betting. By leading the Twinspires division, Michael Lilly is instrumental in capitalizing on the growing digital gaming market and reinforcing Churchill Downs' omnichannel presence. The President of Twinspires' strategic leadership is key to the platform's success and its contribution to the company's overall revenue streams.

    Douglas Shipley - President Fairgrounds Racing, Gaming, OTBs

    Douglas Shipley, the President Fairgrounds Racing, Gaming, OTBs at Churchill Downs, manages the comprehensive operations of the Fairgrounds racetrack, its associated gaming facilities, and the network of Off-Track Betting (OTB) locations. Shipley oversees all aspects of racing, gaming, and hospitality at the Fairgrounds, ensuring a high-quality experience for patrons and driving revenue growth for these key assets. This leadership role involves optimizing operational efficiency, enhancing customer engagement, and developing strategic initiatives to expand the reach and impact of the Fairgrounds property and the OTB network. By focusing on the unique demands of regional racing and gaming markets, Douglas Shipley contributes significantly to Churchill Downs' diversified business model. The President of Fairgrounds Racing, Gaming, OTBs' operational expertise is vital for maintaining the legacy and profitability of these important Churchill Downs properties.

    Ed Reese - Owner, Chief Marketing Officer

    Ed Reese, the Owner, Chief Marketing Officer at Churchill Downs, spearheads all marketing initiatives and brand development strategies across the company's extensive portfolio. Reese directs the creation and implementation of campaigns designed to attract and retain customers for both racing events and gaming operations, leveraging the iconic status of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. This leadership position involves understanding market trends and consumer behavior to drive visitation and engagement with the company's diverse offerings, including casinos, online wagering, and entertainment venues. By overseeing brand messaging and promotional activities, Ed Reese ensures a consistent and compelling brand presence that resonates with target audiences. The Chief Marketing Officer's strategic vision is crucial for expanding market reach and reinforcing Churchill Downs' position as a premier entertainment destination.

    Katherine Armstrong - Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP, Human Resources

    Katherine Armstrong, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP, Human Resources at Churchill Downs, leads all human capital strategies and talent management initiatives. Armstrong oversees the development and implementation of programs focused on employee engagement, recruitment, retention, and professional development across the company's widespread operations. This role is vital for fostering a positive and productive work environment that supports the company's mission and values, ensuring that Churchill Downs attracts and retains top talent in the competitive racing, gaming, and entertainment sectors. By managing employee relations and HR policies, Katherine Armstrong ensures compliance and promotes a culture of excellence. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic approach to human resources is fundamental to the operational success and sustained growth of Churchill Downs.

    Bradley Blackwell - Executive Vice President & General Counsel

    Bradley Blackwell, the Executive Vice President & General Counsel at Churchill Downs, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the enterprise. Blackwell manages corporate governance, regulatory compliance, litigation, and risk management across the company's diverse operations, including racetracks, casinos, and online wagering platforms. This leadership position ensures that Churchill Downs adheres to all applicable laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where it operates, safeguarding the company's interests and reputation. By advising senior management and the Board of Directors on legal matters, Bradley Blackwell plays a crucial role in strategic decision-making and mitigating potential legal risks. The General Counsel's expertise is indispensable for navigating the complex legal and regulatory environment inherent in the gaming and entertainment industry.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Churchill Downs Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Churchill Downs?
    Churchill Downs is led by William Carstanjen (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Marcia Dall (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and William Mudd (President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Churchill Downs’s executive team?
    The executive team of Churchill Downs includes leaders such as William Carstanjen (Chief Executive Officer), Marcia Dall (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), William Mudd (President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Churchill Downs have?
    Churchill Downs has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Churchill Downs’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Churchill Downs includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer, President - Twinspires, President Fairgrounds Racing, Gaming, OTBs.