MLS has engaged a search firm to spearhead the effort to identify a potential successor to league commissioner Don Garber, whose contract is set to conclude at the end of 2027.
An insider confirmed to ESPN that the firm involved is Korn Ferry, which will assist in locating appropriate candidates as MLS navigates a crucial period. The World Cup is scheduled to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. this summer, with MLS anticipating that the tournament will generate increased interest in the league.
The existing Collective Bargaining Agreement with the MLS Players Association is set to expire at the end of 2027, coinciding with the conclusion of Garber’s contract, while the league’s media rights agreement with Apple will end two years later.
“As part of the extensive organizational review initiated last year to assess MLS’ leadership framework, operational efficiency, and long-term governance, the Board of Governors and Commissioner Garber have engaged an executive search firm to assist with succession planning,” MLS spokesperson Dan Courtemanche stated to ESPN. “This action demonstrates prudent long-term planning and aligns with the league’s broader development.”
The expiration of the CBA occurs at a challenging time, as the shift in the league calendar to a summer-spring season means it will take place in the midst of the 2027-28 campaign — a first under the new structure.
An informed source indicated that Garber, who will be 70 when his current contract concludes, has not yet determined whether he will step down at that time or continue through at least the end of the 2027-28 season. Garber was appointed MLS commissioner in 1999 after his tenure with the NFL.
The selection of Korn Ferry comes as MLS seeks to enhance its preparedness regarding succession planning, having also engaged the Miles Group (TMG) last year to assist in developing strategies in this area.
MLS is currently undergoing various personnel transitions within the league. Long-time deputy commissioner Mark Abbott retired at the end of 2022 but continues to serve the league as a consultant. MLS VP Gary Stevenson is set to retire at the end of August. Chris McGowan, the former EVP of Club Performance, departed last year and was succeeded by Charles Altchek.
Sportico was the first to report that Korn Ferry was the search firm engaged by MLS.
Garber has recently established a Succession Committee of owners, co-chaired by LAFC managing co-owner Bennett Rosenthal and Jimmy Haslam, the chairman of Columbus Crew owners Haslam Sports Group.
