Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has officially named Ben Murr President of its TwinSpires and online gaming business segments, making his temporary appointment permanent.

The Louisville-based operator has tapped the long-time CDI employee to permanently oversee the overall strategy and operations of these two business areas.

During his 14 years with Churchill Downs, Murr has served in multiple leadership roles, including President of United Tote, Senior VP and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and, before his official appointment, interim President of TwinSpires and online gaming.

Murr took over as interim President when TwinSpires’ former head Ian Williams left to join Wynn Interactive in October 2021.

Commenting on his latest appointment, Murr said: “I’ve been heavily involved with TwinSpires and our online gaming operations throughout my tenure at CDI.

“I am passionate about these businesses and believe strongly in their future growth potential and strategic importance for CDI.”

Prior to joining Churchill Downs, Murr worked in information technology roles at American multinational General Electric, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Louisville’s Bellarmine University.

Murr’s promotion is effective immediately and Churchill Downs said it will “move quickly” to fill the Senior VP and CTO role.

“During his tenure with CDI, Ben has been an important leader in the growth across our operations,” said Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen.

“He has been a key player throughout the extensive changes in our company over the last 14 years and will continue to move our TwinSpires and online businesses forward.”