Topgolf International, a leading provider of golf entertainment, has announced that David McKillips has been appointed as its new chief executive officer, effective 23 February 2026.
In this position, McKillips will direct the company's strategic planning and expansion efforts, managing over 100 entertainment venues and the industry-leading Toptracer technology.
With nearly three decades of experience in the family entertainment, media, and theme park sectors, McKillips was most recently president and CEO of CEC Entertainment.
There, he spearheaded a significant global expansion, launched innovative guest experiences, and initiated the company's first membership program. He also guided the organisation through financial restructuring.
An experienced leader
“Topgolf is a brand I’ve long admired; one that brings people together through unforgettable shared experiences no matter their level of interest in the game of golf,” says McKillips.
“I’m honored to lead such a talented team that has and continues to expand the Player experience through unrivaled hospitality and innovative sports technology.”
See also: Gamification & competitive socialising: the elevation of the mini-golf experience
Before joining CEC Entertainment, he held multiple leadership roles at Six Flags Entertainment, overseeing operations, food and beverage, retail, games, and procurement.
Notably, McKillips managed theme park operations in Canada and Mexico, contributed to the development of new parks worldwide, founded the company’s sponsorship sales and activation division, and launched the Six Flags TV Network.
McKillips earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Georgia and actively participates in the Jack & Jill Late-Stage Cancer Foundation and Kids Matter International.
Last month, it was announced that Miral, Abu Dhabi's creator of immersive destinations and experiences, is developing a Topgolf venue for Yas Island. The new site is already under construction and is being developed by Miral in partnership with Viya, a Topgolf franchise partner.
This will be the second Topgolf venue in the UAE.
Charlotte Coates is blooloop's editor. She is from Brighton, UK and previously worked as a librarian. She has a strong interest in arts, culture and information and graduated from the University of Sussex with a degree in English Literature. Charlotte can usually be found either with her head in a book or planning her next travel adventure.
Erik Neergaard
Phil Hettema
Carlos Varela
Albert Heisler
