David Hopkinson began his role as Newcastle United’s new CEO on Friday.
David Hopkinson has vowed Newcastle United are “going to win” after being appointed as the club’s new CEO.
An announcement yesterday confirmed the Canadian’s arrival, with Darren Eales stepping down due to illness. Hopkinson worked at international juggernauts like Real Madrid and Madison Square Garden before taking the reins at St James’ Park.
He joins an exciting project as Newcastle - operating under obstructive PSR restrictions - aim to close the gap on their Premier League rivals. His first job will be to finalise the appointment of a new sporting director following Paul Mitchell’s departure.
David Hopkinson meets Eddie Howe
Newcastle posted images of Hopkinson acclimatising to his new surroundings, meeting various staff at the club’s Benton base. One of those was Eddie Howe, the Toon boss whose internal power grows with each passing season.
The relationship between Hopkinson and Howe will be key to Newcastle’s success. It has been well-documented how Mitchell - while not in the same position as Hopkinson - endured a frosty relationship with the Toon boss.
Newcastle’s latest recruit could also be seen introducing himself to Jason Tindall and academy director Steve Harper. While he met youth sides and the women’s setup, Hopkinson will have to wait before linking up with the men's first team, most of whom are on international duty.
David Hopkinson wants to win
Speaking to the club website, Hopkinson highlighted the “magic” of Newcastle as being a key factor behind his decision. The 54-year-old also vowed to “win” - in comments that will be music to supporters’ ears.
"What’s clear to me is how much the pride people in Newcastle have for their community is expressed as love for Newcastle United,” Hopkinson said. “That's awesome. That's energising. That's exciting. That's what matters. Not every team in every community can claim that.
"I wanted to go places that are magical. It's hard to measure 'magical' on a spreadsheet. It's pretty beautiful here. I had a very nice role in Toronto and a very nice lifestyle. It wasn't enough. I wanted more. I want to live and see the world differently. And I just only wanted magical experiences, magical opportunities.
"I didn't get a degree, didn't get an MBA, didn't work at some consultancy. I didn't get parachuted in. This has just been me going up the ladder. That's what gives me high confidence, whether it's going to Real Madrid with a great role, going to Madison Square Garden with a great role, or coming into Newcastle United with a great role.
“I've got lots to learn in this particular situation. But I've done it before, and I'll do it again. And we're gonna win.”
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Yasir Al-Rumayyan welcomes David Hopkinson
“We are delighted to welcome David to Newcastle United,” Al-Rumayyan said. “David is an outstanding executive whose track record across global sport and entertainment speaks for itself.
“His experience and strategic capabilities will be invaluable as we continue to build on the club's presence locally and grow it globally on and off the pitch. David's leadership will be critical as we build upon what we have already achieved since the acquisition towards an exciting future and sustainable success.
"I would like to personally thank Darren Eales for his exceptional work and leadership, as well as his friendship, over the last three years."
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