Brian Burke

UNMATCHED speaker

Brian Burke

Hockey Executive and Leader

An accomplished executive whose career has been highlighted by winning a Stanley Cup and Olympic silver medal, Brian Burke’s passion and contributions to the betterment of the game of hockey have touched every level of the sport.

His list of accomplishments include former general manager for the Hartford Whalers, Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Calgary Flames & Anaheim Ducks, and former SVP and Director of Hockey Operations for the NHL and President of Hockey Operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins. His most recent role was serving as the first-ever executive director of the Professional Women’s Hockey League Players' Association. Burke has also worked in broadcasting during his career, including as an analyst for Corus, Sirius XM, Rogers and Sportsnet, and served in numerous board positions for both corporate and charitable organizations.

A strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, Burke helped found the You Can Play project that targets homophobia and promotes safety and inclusion in sports, in honor of his late son, Brendan. An advocate for preserving nature, Burke received the Ducks Unlimited Order of Conservation Award in 2026. He was inducted into the US Hockey Hall of Fame in 2023, and will be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in November, 2026.