Churchill Downs racetrack names Anderson as 14th president

Churchill Downs Inc. has named Mike Anderson the 14th president of Churchill Downs Racetrack.

Anderson brings to the role 24 years of strategic and operational leadership experience at CDI, having recently served as vice president of operations, where he led the planning, construction and opening of over $300 million in capital projects across the company’s properties. He joined CDI in 1996 as controller and has held a number of roles with the company, including vice president of corporate finance, investor relations, risk management and treasurer. Anderson will report to Bill Mudd, president and chief operating officer of CDI.

He replaces Kevin Flanery, who announced in November that he would step down at the end of the year.

“Mike Anderson is a uniquely qualified leader to assume the role of president at Churchill Downs Racetrack having successfully and consistently delivered on Company goals across multiple departments,” Mudd said. “Over its 146-year history, the racetrack has grown into an incredibly sophisticated and complex business organization, and Anderson is poised to lead it through continued growth and success.”

“The opportunity to serve this company, the commonwealth and our community as president of Churchill Downs Racetrack is the privilege of a lifetime,” said Mike Anderson. “As a native of Louisville, it is humbling to consider what this historic place represents to so many people. I am eager to build upon the great traditions of the Kentucky Derby and continue the company’s work to establish a legacy of integrity and inclusivity both at Churchill Downs and within our industry.”

CDI also named Mike Ziegler senior vice president and general manager of Churchill Downs Racetrack, a role he will fulfill while retaining his current responsibilities as executive director of racing for the entire company. CDI will conduct a search to support Ziegler in that function as the company expands resources dedicated to safety and integrity in horse racing. Prior to joining CDI in 2015, Ziegler served in numerous leadership roles across the industry.

“Mike Ziegler brings to Churchill Downs Racetrack unparalleled knowledge of all aspects of horse racing and racing operations,” said Mudd. “This expertise coupled with Mike Anderson’s robust strategic and operational skills positions the Company for success and likewise advances these talented executives into roles from which they can maximize their strengths.”

CDI also named Ryan Jordan vice president of operations, corporate, where his responsibilities will include operational support for all business units. Jordan joined CDI in 2009 as vice president of operations for Churchill Downs Entertainment Group and later was named senior vice president and general manager of Churchill Downs Racetrack.

“I am excited for Ryan to join us in this key position at corporate,” said Mudd. “It is a great opportunity for him to expand his experience base and further contribute to the company.”

These changes are effective immediately.