David Hopkinson

David Gordon Hopkinson (born November 1970) is a Canadian sports executive who has served as Chief Executive Officer of Premier League club Newcastle United since September 2025.

He previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Madison Square Garden Sports, Global Head of Partnerships at Real Madrid CF, and Chief Commercial Officer of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE).

Early life

Hopkinson was born in Canada in November 1970. He is from Toronto, Ontario.

He ultimately became MLSE's Chief Commercial Officer. In that role, he oversaw commercial activities across the organisation's sports and entertainment portfolio, which included the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League, the Toronto Raptors of the National Basketball Association, Toronto FC of Major League Soccer, and the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League.

At Real Madrid, he led the club's global partnerships programme and served as a member of its executive team. His work included managing the club's international sponsorship portfolio and developing commercial relationships with global companies.

His period at the club coincided with the redevelopment of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

Madison Square Garden Sports

On 31 August 2020, Madison Square Garden Sports announced that Hopkinson had been appointed Executive Vice President of MSG Sports and President of Team Business Operations. As President and COO, he continued to oversee the company's business operations and worked with its executive management team on corporate strategy.

Newcastle United

On 4 September 2025, Newcastle United announced Hopkinson's appointment as chief executive officer. He formally joined the club on 5 September 2025, succeeding Darren Eales, who stepped down for health reasons.

His appointment followed a handover process with Eales. As chief executive, Hopkinson leads the club's business operations and executive team.

Hopkinson has spoken about increasing Newcastle's commercial revenue, developing its international profile and improving its infrastructure. He has also overseen the club's consideration of options for St James' Park and plans for a new training facility.

Following Eddie Howe's departure in July 2026, Hopkinson was involved alongside Sporting Director Ross Wilson in the process of appointing Matthias Jaissle as Newcastle's new head coach. Jaissle was formally appointed on 5 August 2026, with Hopkinson describing him as "one of the most exciting and highly regarded young coaches in football".

Other activities

Hopkinson has served on the board of directors of Canada Basketball since 2023. He has also served on the boards of Canada's Walk of Fame and the Women's College Hospital Foundation.

He has served on the Chancellor's Advisory Committee at McGill University.

Honours

Hopkinson received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013 for his contributions to Canada.