Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber on Monday announced two promotions of the executive leadership of the league office.
JoAnn Neale, the league's Chief Administrative Officer, has been promoted to President, while maintaining her existing title. Additionally, Gary Stevenson, who serves as President of MLS Business Ventures, has been promoted to Deputy Commissioner, while also maintaining his existing title. Meanwhile, league President and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott will continue in his role.
“This structure enhances our league office by maximizing the skill, experience and dedication of Mark, JoAnn and Gary and everyone on our leadership team,” said Commissioner Garber. “This is a period of explosive growth in all areas of the league. We look forward to continuing to build on our momentum, and to delivering the greatest experience in sport to our fans.”
Neale has been with MLS since joining in 1998 as legal counsel and most recently held the title of chief administrative and social responsibility officer. Stevenson has been involved in the sports industry since 1980 and joined MLS in 2013 as president and managing director of MLS Business Ventures. Abbott was the league's first employee in 1993 and currently manages all aspects of league operations and competitions, and is a leading figure in the league's expansion efforts.
Commissioner Garber, who has served in his post since 1999, recently signed a five-year contract extension through 2023.
