Host, Executive

Churchill Downs; Louisville (KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Churchill Downs Incorporated is seeking an Executive Gaming Host in Louisville to cultivate VIP relationships, deliver exceptional guest experiences, and manage personalized engagement plans. The role focuses on enhancing guest satisfaction, retention, and revenue through targeted events and thoughtful comps.

Responsibilities include hosting VIPs, coordinating events, and leveraging player data to drive growth while maintaining high standards of discretion and service.

Qualifications

• One (1) to two (2) years of Gaming Host or related hospitality experience preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong knowledge of player management systems, gaming operations, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Racing License.

Responsibilities

• Develop relationships with VIP players through in-person interactions, events, and follow-up.
• Manage and resolve guest requests and issues promptly, ensuring full satisfaction.
• Keep hosted guests informed of events and promotions via all channels.
• Plan and execute special events and support telemarketing to confirm attendance.
• Represent the company at off-property functions to entertain or assist guests.
• Increase trip frequency by contacting guests via calls, mail, or visits.
• Award complimentary gifts and experiences based on activity and guidelines.
• Engage with guests on the gaming floor for extended periods and sign up non-carded players.
• Analyze player trends to identify revenue growth opportunities.
• Create individualized annual engagement plans for top players.
• Partner with the Player Development Manager on VIP goals.
• Act as liaison between management and VIP guests.
• Exercise discretionary authority on comps and amenities.
• Coordinate and host premium VIP experiences such as suite events, off-site entertainment, dinners, and concerts.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

VIP relations

Guest service

Communication

Discretion

Multitasking

Microsoft Office

Flexibility

Assertiveness

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Player management systems

Microsoft Office applications

Job description

Derby City Gaming & Hotel boasts nearly 1,300 of the latest games, a grab-n-go restaurant, Oliver’s Chophouse & Bourbon Bar, a Kentucky Derby-themed hotel, and live music! The newly expanded Derby City Gaming & Hotel was voted one of the “Best Places to Work in Greater Louisville” by Louisville Business First

JOB SUMMARY

The Executive Gaming Host is responsible for developing and managing programs that attract and retain VIP players while delivering an exceptional guest experience. This role requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, and frequent interaction with high-value guests, including making informed decisions on complimentary offerings. The Executive Gaming Host is expected to consistently uphold the company’s mission by creating an engaging environment and delivering superior service that drives satisfaction and repeat visitation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with VIP players through in-person interactions, events, personalized communication, and consistent follow-up.
• Manage and resolve guest requests and issues promptly, ensuring full satisfaction.
• Keep hosted guests informed of events and promotions using all communication channels.
• Plan and execute special events and support telemarketing efforts to confirm attendance.
• Represent the company at off-property functions to entertain or assist guests.
• Increase trip frequency by contacting guests via calls, written communication, or personal visits.
• Award complimentary gifts and experiences based on gaming activity and program guidelines.
• Engage with guests on the gaming floor for extended periods, including identifying and signing up non-carded players.
• Analyze player trends to identify revenue growth opportunities within assigned VIP portfolios.
• Create individualized annual engagement plans for top players, including trip planning, gifting, and milestone recognition.
• Partner with the Player Development Manager on strategic goals related to VIP visitation, revenue, and retention.
• Act as a liaison between management and VIP guests, sharing insights and recommendations to improve the guest experience.
• Exercise discretionary authority on comps and amenities within guidelines to enhance high-value guest satisfaction.
• Coordinate and host premium VIP experiences such as suite events, off-site entertainment, private dinners, and concerts.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Maintain a flexible schedule and high level of accessibility to meet business needs, including responding promptly to all communications.
• Perform effectively in a fast-paced, high-energy environment while delivering exceptional guest service.
• Consistently model and reinforce the company’s mission, values, and commitment to creating an exciting, welcoming atmosphere.
• Ensure player records, reports, and documentation are accurate, complete, and current.
• Exercise sound judgment and professional discretion when interacting with VIP guests and issuing complimentary items.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• One (1) to two (2) years of Gaming Host or related hospitality experience preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong knowledge of player management systems, gaming operations, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Racing License.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit or stand; walk; use hands to finger reach, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. The employee is subjected to circulate throughout the assigned areas, including the smoking area, actively observing players and functioning of machines.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

Work With Us

Churchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.