Wind Creek names Jahnae Erpenbach Executive Vice President and General Manager of Chicago Southland

Wind Creek Hospitality has appointed industry veteran Jahnae Erpenbach as Executive Vice President and General Manager of Illinois' Wind Creek Chicago Southland, drawing on more than 35 years of experience across gaming and hospitality operations.

Erpenbach, an Illinois native, has worked across marketing, operations, multi-property leadership, and corporate governance. She also maintains longstanding relationships with the Illinois Gaming Board.

“I am incredibly honored to join Wind Creek Hospitality and lead Wind Creek Chicago Southland,” Erpenbach said. “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.”

Before joining Wind Creek, Erpenbach served as General Manager of Golden Nugget Danville. In that role, she oversaw operations following the property’s opening, with a focus on organizational alignment and workforce engagement.

Her career also includes serving as CEO and Board Chairwoman of Spectacle Entertainment, where she was involved 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,” said Jay Dorris, President and CEO of Wind Creek Hospitality. “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.”

According to a company release, Erpenbach “has built a reputation as a dynamic and empathetic leader who believes that strong culture drives performance.” The statement noted her focus on workplace environments where employees feel supported and engaged, with the aim of improving guest experience and business outcomes.