“After much reflection, I’ve shared my intention to retire in early 2026,” Hopkins wrote. “I plan to remain in the role through the selection and transition to help ensure continuity and to support the onboarding of the very best leader for this position. This role, and this team, mean a great deal to me.”
Hopkins joined the city in 2017 after nearly two decades at USAA, where he held multiple senior roles, including chief customer officer and chief strategy officer.
In his current role, he oversees a department of more than 340 employees with an annual operating budget of $80 million and a capital budget of more than $250 million, according to Hopkins’ LinkedIn profile.
The city is now seeking a new CIO to lead its IT Services Department, which supports IT functions across more than 40 departments and 500 city facilities, including cybersecurity, infrastructure, application support and smart city strategy. The job posting describes the position as a strategic executive role responsible for modernizing IT infrastructure, strengthening cybersecurity and aligning technology services with San Antonio’s broader operational goals.
The incoming CIO will also guide digital transformation efforts, data platform integration and support for public safety systems.
Candidates are expected to have at least 10 years of professional IT experience, including six years in a leadership capacity. The deadline to apply is Jan. 12, 2026.
Hopkins’ announcement comes as cities across Texas continue to evolve their technology leadership. Earlier this year, the city of El Paso launched a CIO search of its own following a promotion within its IT department leadership ranks. The Texas Office of Court Administration is in the midst of its own CIO search following former CIO Casey Kennedy’s retirement in November.
As San Antonio begins the process of selecting its next technology executive, Hopkins said he remains committed to supporting a smooth transition.
This story originally appeared in Industry Insider — Texas, which is part of e.Republic, Government Technology's parent company.
