Keeneland’s long time Director of Communications, Jim Williams, announced
Tuesday his plans to retire after more than 38 years with the company. He will
step down in December.
Williams succeeded J.B. Faulconer as Keeneland’s Director of Publicity in
November 1971 and, ultimately, assumed the title of Director of Communications
for the company. He has worked under three company presidents — Ted Bassett,
Bill Greely and current CEO Nick Nicholson.
“To put Jim’s tenure in perspective, when he joined Keeneland in 1971,
Richard Nixon was president, ‘All in the Family’ premiered on television, and
gas was 30 cents a gallon,” Nicholson said. “Since that time, Jim has been the
public face of Keeneland, and he has conducted himself in a manner that has
enhanced Keeneland’s stature in the eyes of everyone who has had the pleasure of
meeting him. Jim is a man of character, integrity and humility. We at Keeneland
thank him for his many years of service and wish him the best in his
retirement.”
In the position, Williams has overseen the advertising and communication for
Keeneland’s racing, auction sales and simulcasting, serving as the company’s
spokesman.
“What a phenomenal privilege it’s been to spend almost my entire working
career at a company that’s a world leader,” Williams said. “After 38 years on
the job, it’s time to pass the baton, enjoy the flexibility of retirement and
look forward to attending Keeneland as a spectator.”
During Williams’ career, Keeneland’s facilities have undergone almost a total
transformation. Each spring and fall the track hosts two of North America’s
premier race meets and Keeneland is the largest dollar volume Thoroughbred
auction company in the world.
Keeneland has not yet named a successor to Williams.