Topgolf Entertainment Group has recently undergone significant changes in its executive leadership, marking a period of transformation for the Dallas-based “eatertainment” company. In February 2026, Topgolf appointed David McKillips as its new Chief Executive Officer. McKillips brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles as CEO of CEC Entertainment, the parent company of Chuck E. Cheese, and various executive positions at Six Flags and DC Comics. His appointment follows the departure of former CEO Artie Starrs, who resigned in July 2025 to pursue another CEO position. Starrs’ departure was announced in August 2025, with the company stating that he would remain through September as Topgolf searched for a new chief executive.
In addition to McKillips’ appointment, Topgolf has also welcomed Jay Spears as its new Chief Information Officer. Spears joins the company from CEC Entertainment, where he worked alongside McKillips. His extensive background in information technology includes roles at KPMG, Six Flags, and Urban Air Adventure Parks. Spears will oversee IT operations at Topgolf’s 101 venues and manage the company’s proprietary Toptracer technology, a ball-tracking system used both at Topgolf locations and in PGA broadcasts.
These leadership changes come amid Topgolf’s transition to new ownership under Leonard Green & Partners, a private equity firm that acquired the company from Callaway in January 2026 in a deal valued at $1.1 billion. The company has been focusing on improving its same-store sales, which saw a modest increase of 0.7% in 2025, reaching $450.8 million. The new executive team is expected to drive further growth and innovation as Topgolf continues to expand its footprint in the “eatertainment” sector.