Hopkinson, currently an executive producer at Left Bank Pictures, will be responsible for developing and producing a new slate of scripted drama for both internal and external commissions, reporting to ITV Studios managing director Kevin Lygo.
Before joining Left Bank, Hopkinson was commissioning editor for Channel 4's drama department, overseeing projects such as the multi-award winning Elizabeth I starring Helen Mirren and Jeremy Irons, along with Sugar Rush, All In The Game, and E4's Skins.
Hopkinson also previously produced the BAFTA-nominated Danielle Cable: Eyewitness for ITV and the Emmy award-winning Henry VIII with Ray Winstone. He will officially join ITV Studios in September.
"Francis is one of the most talented drama producers working in the industry today; he has an eye for ideas which resonate with large audiences along with impressive relationships with talent on and off screen," said Lygo.
"Drama is a hugely important area for ITV Studios and with Francis joining our team we are in a very good position to build on our already strong slate to produce more scripted content for UK and international broadcasters."
Hopkinson added: "I am delighted to be returning to ITV Studios at a time when there is such great ambition for drama. I'm looking forward to working with Kevin and team to develop a new slate of drama for both ITV and external broadcasters."
According to ITV's financial results for the first quarter of 2011, ITV Studios saw its external revenue rise 7% to £64m over the three months, driven by "stronger international performance" of certain key formats. However, the division's internal revenue was £68m, down from £73m at the same time last year.
