Racing and casino operator Churchill Downs Inc. (CDI) has confirmed that Robert Evans will retire as executive chairman effective September 30 but will remain as the non-executive chairman of CDI’s board of directors.

The company completed the senior executive leadership transition, which began in August 2014 when William Carstanjen was named as CDI’s CEO, a position Evans had held when he joined CDI in August 2006.

CDI saw significant growth during Evans’ nine-year tenure, as the company invested about $1.8b in four major growth initiatives: Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby Week; Advance Deposit Wagering via the acquisitions of AmericaTAB, Bloodstock Research Information Service (BRIS) and Youbet.com which led to the 2007 launch of TwinSpires.com; casino gaming; and mobile and online casual games via the acquisition of Big Fish Games.

Meanwhile, Merkur Gaming Americas has appointed Charles Hiten as new managing director effective this month, following the sudden passing of Jens Halle in May.