Churchill Downs Incorporated

Job Details

Description

SUMMARY:

We are seeking an experienced PMO Portfolio Manager to oversee a team of five or more Project Managers within our rapidly evolving IT environment at Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI). This role will focus on developing and mentoring Project Managers to handle increasingly complex projects while ensuring alignment with our strategic objectives and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of leadership skills, project management experience, and a deep understanding of the regulated gaming and racing industries.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Act as a coach and mentor for Project Managers, providing guidance on project management best practices, methodologies, and professional development to elevate their capabilities.
• Lead and motivate team members, fostering a collaborative and accountable team culture that encourages professional growth and high performance.
• Promote awareness and understanding of diverse perspectives within the team while effectively managing and supporting resolution of conflicts among cross-functional team members.
• Support Project Managers through end-to-end project management for IT initiatives, ensuring alignment with company goals and regulatory requirements within the gaming and racing industries.
• Validate business requirements are captured with actionable project plans and timelines reflecting collaboration with stakeholders to drive project success.
• Guide and coach Project Managers through escalated and sensitive situations to work towards solutions and collaboration.
• Proactively seek feedback on team members from stakeholders and project teams to reward and recognize success while also ensuring development opportunities and needs are addressed.
• Guide Project Managers as needed through identification, assessment, and project risk and issue mitigation, implementing strategies to ensure project success and compliance.
• Support and coach team as needed to successfully coordinate with vendors for procurement of necessary technology solutions, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Confirm accurate maintenance of project documentation and reporting.
• Contribute to the ongoing enhancement of PMO processes, tools, and templates to drive efficiency and effectiveness.
• Travel to project sites as needed during key project phases to support the team, implementation and stakeholder engagement.
• Oversee the daily administration of the team, including recruitment, performance management, compensation management and fostering a collaborative work environment that supports professional growth and development.
• May act as Project Manager for initiatives as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

REGULATORY

Ability to obtain necessary racing and/or gaming licenses as required in jurisdictions where CDI operates. This role will involve an extensive background check due to the highly regulated nature of the industry. Must be 21 years of age or older.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Project Management, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA a plus.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is strongly preferred; candidates should be willing to obtain PMP within their first year if not currently certified.
• A minimum of five to seven years of experience in project management, preferably within IT and regulated industries such as gaming.
• Proven experience managing complex and high-risk projects, with at least 3 years in a people leadership role.
• Understanding of IT infrastructure general concepts, including networking, servers, and security systems.
• Experience working with regulatory bodies and implementing compliance measures in IT projects.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools (e.g., MS Project, KeyedIn) for planning, tracking, and reporting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to help others navigate ambiguity and drive progress in complex situations.
• Strong initiative and self-direction with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Proven ability to develop others, provide constructive feedback and elevate performance levels of the PMO.
• High emotional intelligence and self-awareness to handle sensitive situations tactfully.
• Familiarity with vendor application services used in gaming facilities is advantageous.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Extended periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Regular use of a keyboard and mouse for typing and navigating software.
• Viewing a computer screen for prolonged periods.
• Ability to manipulate paperwork, including filing, sorting, and organizing.
• Moving within the office environment to attend meetings, use office equipment, or interact with colleagues.
• Occasional lifting of office supplies or paperwork (up to 20 pounds).
• Speaking and listening to colleagues and clients in person, over the phone, or via video conferencing.
• Working in a climate-controlled office environment with moderate noise levels.
• Performing repetitive tasks such as data entry or document preparation.
• Working under artificial lighting conditions typical of an office environment, which may include fluorescent or LED lighting.
• Working onsite five days a week at the Louisville, KY CDI headquarters office.

ABOUT THE COMPANY:

Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI”, NASDAQ: CHDN) has been creating extraordinary entertainment experiences for over 150 years, starting with the iconic Kentucky Derby. Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, CDI has expanded through live and historical racing entertainment venues, the TwinSpires online wagering platform, and regional casino properties. For more information, visit www.churchilldownsincorporated.com.

If you are passionate about project management and dedicated to fostering the growth of emerging leaders in a challenging and rewarding environment, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to drive advancement within our PMO team.

Travel Required

Yes. 5%-10% as needed