Kathy Carter to Depart Soccer United Marketing

Kathy Carter will step down from her position as president of Soccer United Marketing (SUM), the commercial arm of Major League Soccer. Carter became president of SUM in 2010. According to a statement by MLS, Carter is departing to pursue her next challenge and career opportunity.

“I would like to thank Kathy on behalf of our owners, clubs and staff for the significant contributions she has made to the sport of soccer in the U.S. and Canada while at SUM and MLS,” said Don Garber, MLS commissioner and chief executive officer of SUM. “Kathy played a critical role in the development of our league and the growth of soccer in North America for many years. Her energy, leadership and strong relationships helped establish SUM as one of the leading commercial soccer companies in the world. We wish her the best of luck in the next chapter in her career.”

Carter served as vice-president of corporate marketing at MLS from its inception until 1999. She spent two years with the 1994 FIFA World Cup organizing committee, which successfully brought the World Cup to the United States. Carter also was vice-president of sales and marketing for Anschutz Entertainment Group and vice-president at Envision.

“My time with Soccer United Marketing and Major League Soccer has been deeply meaningful—building and expanding the game has been my profession and my passion,” said Carter. “I’m grateful for the life-long friendships I’ve made and the support I’ve received from the commissioner, MLS Business Ventures President Gary Stevenson and all of my colleagues at the league, and look forward to seeing MLS continue its incredible growth. I will remain a huge supporter of MLS and U.S. Soccer and will be cheering loudly from the stands for our clubs and players.”

Carter had taken a leave of absence in December to pursue her campaign for the U.S. Soccer presidency, which she ultimately lost to Carlos Cordeiro in February. Carter’s last day with SUM is April 13.