Security Manager

About the role

The Security Manager is responsible for overseeing all security operations at Ellis Park Racing & Gaming, including the protection of property, facilities, and equipment, while ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, patrons, horsemen, and racing participants. In addition, this position plays a critical role in supervising and directing backside safety and security, as well as maintaining compliance with Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission (KHRGC) regulations and company policies.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Manage, supervise, and direct all security operations for Ellis Park Racing & Gaming, including racing operations, gaming operations, and backside areas.
• Oversee backside safety and security protocols, ensuring compliance with KHRC rules, including monitoring access control, licensing requirements, stable area safety, and horsemen security needs.
• Ensure proper documentation and reporting of property incidents, including Workers’ Compensation, General Liability, and racing-related incidents.
• Prepare detailed activity reports as required.
• Schedule and evaluate the work of assigned security staff to ensure consistent coverage of the racing facility and stable areas.
• Lead supervisors and team members through effective talent development, performance management, and training programs.
• Develop, implement, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Special Post Orders, and directives, including backside-specific procedures approved by the Director of Security & Surveillance.
• Manage emergencies, security alerts, and disputes involving racing operations, gaming operations, or backside personnel.
• Coordinate with Racing Officials, KHRC representatives, and property leadership to ensure regulatory compliance and effective safety enforcement.
• Prepare reports, gather evidence, and provide testimony as required at hearings or investigations related to racing or gaming incidents.
• Conduct investigations into reported violations and take appropriate corrective action.
• Monitor departmental financial objectives, including forecasting, budgeting, scheduling expenditures, and initiating corrective measures.
• Ensure all staff adhere to Ellis Park policies, KHRGC regulations, and state and federal laws.
• Build positive relationships with patrons, racing participants, and Ellis Park personnel by providing exceptional customer service and fostering a safe, professional environment.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret standard documentation.
• Identify problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Interpret an extensive variety of instructions, troubleshooting when necessary.
• Maintain a professional working relationship among all team members.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Works well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to work a flexible schedule, including some nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Able to obtain and maintain a valid Kentucky gaming/racing license and a Race and Sportsbook Employee License.

Education and Experience

• 5+ years of leadership experience in security operations, law enforcement, or related field required.
• Associate’s degree or greater in related field preferred.
• Preferred certifications in First Aid, CPR and Security Awareness Training.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• The employee is regularly required to stand, speak, hear, use hands, and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee may occasionally be required to sit.
• Specific vision abilities include close and distance vision, color and depth perception, and peripheral vision.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to ten (50) pounds.