Wind Creek Hospitality on Wednesday appointed Jahnae Erpenbach as the new Executive Vice President and General Manager at Wind Creek Chicago Southland. A respected leader in the gaming and hospitality industry, Erpenbach has more than 35 years of experience driving strategic growth and team-centered cultures in some of the Midwest’s most competitive markets.
Erpenbach joins Wind Creek Chicago Southland after her role as Golden Nugget Danville General Manager, where she stabilized operations post-opening, strengthened team engagement, and positioning the property for long-term success.
Her extensive career includes executive leadership roles including Spectacle Entertainment CEO and Board Chairwoman, where she played a critical role in the development and opening of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana.
“Jahnae is a proven leader with a unique blend of operational expertise and advanced marketing strategy,” Jay Dorris, Wind Creek Hospitality President and CEO, said in a statement. “Her deep understanding of the Chicagoland market, strong regulatory relationships, and commitment to people-first leadership make her the ideal choice to lead Wind Creek Chicago Southland into its next phase of growth.”
Erpenbach, according to a news release, “has built a reputation as a dynamic and empathetic leader who believes that strong culture drives performance.” Her leadership philosophy focuses on fostering environments where team members feel valued, supported, and inspired, ultimately enhancing the guest experience and delivering sustainable business results.
“I am incredibly honored to join Wind Creek Hospitality and lead Wind Creek Chicago Southland,” said Erpenbach. “I believe that when people feel proud of where they work and supported in what they do, great things happen, for our teams, our guests, and our community. I look forward to building something truly special together.”
A native of Illinois, Erpenbach is familiar with the state’s gaming landscape and has longstanding relationships with the Illinois Gaming Board. Her career includes marketing, operations, multi-property leadership, and corporate governance.
