Jim Gates

Vice President, Business Development
Churchill Downs Entertainment

Jim Gates assumed the role of vice president, business development in July, 2009 after serving as General Manager of Churchill Downs Racetrack since 2004. In his current role, Gates is responsible for assessing, developing, and creating events and business concepts for Churchill Downs Entertainment. Formerly, Gates oversaw the day-to-day operations at Churchill Downs, including planning for and execution of all race meets and major events such as the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, Breeders’ Cup, and night racing. Gates still oversees the safety initiative for Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI).

Gates had previously served as vice president, development with CDI. In that post, he coordinated CDI's merger and acquisition activities and played a crucial role in the Company's merger with Arlington Park and its acquisitions of Hollywood Park, Calder Race Course and Ellis Park. Gates also served as the primary contact for the equity analysts who follow the Company's stock.

Gates' career at the home of the Kentucky Derby began in 1996 when he joined the Company as director of financial planning. A year later, a promotion expanded his role to include financial analysis. He was promoted to director of development in 1999 and was named vice president of development in 2000. In 2001, he was named vice president, administration for Churchill Downs Racetrack, and in 2002 was promoted to acting general manager. In 2004, Gates was named general manager for Churchill Downs racetrack.

Prior to joining CDI, Gates managed an internal audit group for Providian Corporation in Louisville, Ky., and was a senior auditor for Price Waterhouse in Cincinnati.

A certified public accountant, Gates graduated with high honors from the University of Notre Dame, where he earned his master's degree in business administration. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Dayton.

A native of Louisville, Gates is a member of the Executive Committee of the Louisville Urban League Board of Directors, and is on the Board of Directors of the Louisville Sports Commission, Racing Medication & Testing Consortium, Racing Officials Accreditation Program, and Track Surface Testing Laboratory.