Description

Job Overview: The Senior Director of Community Relations and Economic Development is a high-level executive role responsible for leading and directing the community engagement initiatives of Wind Creek Chicago Southland. This position serves as the face of the casino organization in the communities we serve, building strong relationships with key community stakeholders including business leaders and community organizations. The Senior Director will collaborate with company Government Relations staff to assure that concerns of local governmental leaders are addressed.   The Senior Director will develop and implement strategies to enhance the casino’s community presence, position Wind Creek Chicago Southland as a supporter of community economic growth and ensure positive stakeholder engagement. 

Purpose:

Our genuine engagement and positive energy provides guests, especially women, an escape into an exciting fantasy world of fun, chance, and possibility, where everyone feels a sense of belonging and importance.

Value System:

Our enthusiastic commitment to our purpose inspires and empowers us to do everything right, have fun, and be the best. We will be recognized fairly, elevating our levels of personal accountability, and focus on our customer. The resulting creation of wealth will grow opportunities for all.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Strategic Planning:

• Develop and execute comprehensive community relations strategies aligned with the casino's mission and goals.
• Provide visionary leadership to community stakeholders while fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
• Serve as a key decision-maker in strategic planning and policy development related to community initiatives initiated economic development.

1. Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, community leaders, business leaders, and other key stakeholders.
• Represent the casino at community events, public forums, and meetings to promote positive relationships and enhance the casino's visibility.
• Act as the primary liaison between the casino and local, state, and federal government agencies.

1. Economic Development:

• Participate in efforts to promote job creation and stimulate economic growth within the community.
• Collaborate with local economic development agencies, chambers of commerce, and other organizations to identify and leverage economic development and empowerment opportunities.
• Oversee the development and implementation of economic development projects, including infrastructure improvements, business incentives, and workforce development programs.

1. Community Relations:

• Develop and implement programs and initiatives that address community needs and promote social and economic well-being.
• Ensure the casino's community relations activities align with its corporate social responsibility goals.
• Monitor and respond to community concerns and feedback, ensuring the casino maintains a positive reputation.

1. Communication and Advocacy:

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for community relations and economic development initiatives, effectively communicating the casino's vision and goals.
• Advocate for policies and initiatives that support community and economic development at the local, state, and national levels.
• Develop and implement communication strategies to keep stakeholders informed and engaged.

1. Program Management and Evaluation:

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of community relations and economic development programs and initiatives.
• Monitor and report on the progress and impact of programs, using data and feedback to drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and best practices.

Job Requirements: (please ensure you meet the listed requirements prior to applying)

• High School diploma or GED required or currently enrolled and successfully complete a GED program within 6 months from start date as a condition of continued employment
•  Must be twenty-one (21) years of age or older
• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration (or related field) AND five (5) years’ experience in a Director level position– required
  • OR Seven (7) years’ experience in a Director level position AND if selected for the position will have three (3) years from the date of employment to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (or related field)– required
• Six (6) years’ experience as a Director level role in Marketing at a WCH property - required
  • OR Eight (8) years as a marketing director at a casino gaming resort - required
• Three (3) years’ experience working in Economic Development industry- required
• Two (2) years’ Experience with community outreach initiatives that  resulted in long term business partnerships- required
• Willing to work odd and irregular hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Willing to travel and participate in training as recommended or required
• Must have an Occupational License (or the ability to obtain and maintain a license) pursuant to the Illinois Gaming Act and remain in good standing with the Illinois Gaming Board as a requirement for this position

• Pay range - $182,600.00 - $224,800.00 (The base pay will depend factors such as experience level and skillset.)
• Voluntary full-time benefit offerings include the following - group medical, dental, vision, and life insurance as well as access to a flexible spending account (FSA) option. We also offer Employee Assistant Program (EAP), paid time off, 401K with matching, shift differential, and discretionary quarterly bonuses.