Newcastle United Strengthens Executive Team with Three Senior Leadership Appointments

Newcastle United has strengthened its executive leadership team with the appointment of three senior figures as the club continues its strategy of building sustainable long-term success both on and off the pitch.

The new additions will join the leadership team led by David Hopkinson and are tasked with enhancing the club’s people, commercial and marketing operations.

Tyneside-born executive Graeme Johnson has been appointed Chief People Officer, while sports marketing specialist Dave O'Connor will join later this month as Chief Revenue Officer. Global brand strategist Steven Taylor is set to begin his role as Chief Marketing Officer on 1 July.

The appointments form part of Newcastle United’s continued investment in creating a high-performing organisation and complement the club’s existing executive leadership group, which includes Simon Capper, Brad Miller and Ross Wilson.

Graeme Johnson appointed Chief People Officer

Johnson joins Newcastle United with extensive experience in leadership development, organisational culture and talent management. He arrives from Merlin Entertainments, where he served as Global Vice President of People and Culture and worked alongside internationally recognised brands including LEGO, Hasbro and Ferrari.

Throughout his career, Johnson has led major cultural transformation programmes and held senior leadership positions across a range of sectors, including roles with Virgin Media, BT and Entain.

Dave O’Connor to lead commercial growth

O’Connor will oversee the club’s commercial strategy as Chief Revenue Officer, with responsibility for partnerships, retail, licensing and business development.

He is a co-founder of 18K Sports, a global sports marketing agency based in Zurich, and brings more than two decades of experience delivering commercial programmes for leading organisations across the sports industry.

His previous roles include seven years within the commercial division of FIFA, alongside senior positions with sports marketing businesses including Infront Sports & Media and GMR Marketing.

Steven Taylor to head global marketing strategy

Taylor joins Newcastle United with more than 20 years of experience in brand development, fan engagement and commercial growth across a range of consumer and service-led industries.

As Chief Marketing Officer, he will be responsible for leading the club’s global marketing strategy and supporting efforts to expand Newcastle United’s international profile while deepening engagement with supporters worldwide.

Commenting on the appointments, Hopkinson said Johnson, O’Connor and Taylor each bring proven leadership credentials and specialist expertise to the club.

He added that their immediate priorities will focus on strengthening organisational performance, enhancing Newcastle United’s global brand and accelerating commercial growth, while helping establish the foundations of a world-class organisation capable of sustaining success at the highest level of football.