[BUSINESS WATCH] Kathy Carter has been named president of Soccer United Marketing, Major League's marketing arm that oversees the commercial activities of most of the important soccer properties in the United States,

Carter, who most recently served as Executive Vice President, will manage the day-to day operations of SUM, replaces Doug Quinn, who left SUM last summer to become president of FC Dallas.

In her new role, Carter will oversee all commercial activity -- sponsorship, licensing and advertising sales -- for the organization in the United States and Canada.

“Kathy is incredibly passionate about the sport and has been deeply committed to our many properties, partners and affiliates,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “She has been a major contributor to our commercial strategy and is dedicated to ensuring our partners derive great value through their association with us. I am confident that she will excel in this new role and help take MLS and soccer in North America to even greater heights.”
 
In addition to Major League Soccer, SUM is responsible for all sales and servicing for some of the premier soccer properties in the United States, including U.S. Soccer national teams, the Mexican national team, Chivas Guadalajara and many Concacaf events.
 
SUM works with three television networks and has its own soccer advertising network, MLS Digital Properties.
 
“The business of soccer in the United States has never been stronger than it is today,” said Carter. “I see it as a privilege and an honor to work in the sport that I am so passionate about. Soccer has made so much progress in North America over the past decade and I can’t wait to be a part of its growth in the future.”
 
Carter, who played soccer at the College of William and Mary, is in her second stint with MLS/SUM. She was a member of the league office staff when MLS kicked off in 1996.