Executive Director, Minnesota Racing Commission

Job Summary

The Minnesota Racing Commission (MRC) is conducting a national search for a new, energetic and forward-thinking executive director to succeed an incumbent who will retire in early 2020.  MRC’s executive director is appointed by Minnesota’s Governor from one or more finalists recommended by the MRC.  This unclassified managerial position works with a dedicated staff, a nine-member commission, and industry stakeholders to regulate pari-mutuel racing and card rooms at two racetracks.

Minnesota’s horse racing industry has enjoyed healthy growth in recent years.  The MRC’s strong leadership has been instrumental in supporting this growth and providing effective regulatory oversight.

The ideal candidate will possess proven leadership skills, a passion for the racing industry, and a dedication to public service.

The Minnesota Racing Commission’s principal offices are located at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota and Running Aces Casino, Hotel and Racetrack in Columbus, Minnesota.  The commission employs 12 year-round employees and many more contractors and seasonal employees during the May-September live racing season.  MRC’s executive director has offices at both locations. 

The MRC is responsible for the following:

• Regulate horse racing and card club activities to ensure they are conducted in the public interest.
• Issue racetrack owner, operator, and occupational licenses.
• Enforce all laws and rules concerning horse racing and the card club plan of operations.
• Supervise the conduct of pari-mutuel betting on horse racing and collection and distribution of all pari-mutuel taxes.
• Conduct investigations and inquiries the Commission deems necessary to carry out its duties.
• Take all needed steps to ensure the integrity of horse racing and card playing in Minnesota.
• Protect the safety and welfare of racehorses and racing participants.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher;
• Five years professional experience in the public or private sector with responsibility for daily operations, including supervisory responsibilities, policy development, project management and/or budgeting; 

  OR

  Five years’ professional experience working in a regulatory capacity with a public agency;

• Experience with development and implementation of budgets and/or policies necessary to meet the goals of the organization;
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders;
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree or professional accreditation, such as JD, MBA, CPA or DVM.
• Knowledge of Minnesota state government structure and operation.
• Demonstrated familiarity with public policy making, legislation, rulemaking, and administrative law.
• Experience in the pari-mutuel racing or gaming industry sufficient to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
• Management experience which includes leadership, strategic planning, negotiation and conflict resolution.

Physical Requirements

Perform the physical requirements of the job, including walking on uneven terrain; working in a barn environment around horses; and bending, reaching and climbing.

Additional Requirements

To be considered for this position you must submit a cover letter with your resume providing details of your background and work experience related to the minimum qualifications.

Final candidates will be required to submit to:

Criminal history check
Reference checks
Credit check
Fingerprinting
Valid Class D Driver's License check

Why Work For Us

GREAT BENEFITS PACKAGE! The State of Minnesota offers a comprehensive benefits package including low cost medical and dental insurance, employer paid life insurance, short and long term disability, pre-tax flexible spending accounts, retirement plan, tax-deferred compensation, generous vacation and sick leave, and 11 paid holidays each year.

How to Apply

Click "Apply" at the bottom of the page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637.

For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.