We’re here for all the companies and leaders that are electing Black excellence into senior roles. Latest on our list: 37-year-old Danita Johnson, who has just been named the new President of Business Operations for D.C. United soccer. Johnson is the first-ever Black president in Major League Soccer (MLS), and one of the few women in the highest executive rank in the league’s history. Johnson, no stranger to the sports world, also serves as the president and Chief Operating Officer to the WNBA team Los Angeles Sparks -best known for her ticket sales increase by $50 from 2014 to 2017.

Johnson said in a statement:

“I’ve learned a lot from my time with the WNBA, especially the Los Angeles Sparks organization. It is my belief that establishing a winning culture off the field impacts every aspect of the business, from fan interactions to community engagement, and I am committed to doing just this for one of the most storied and decorated clubs in American soccer history.”

Jason Levien, D.C United CEO and co-chairman said:

“Throughout her career, Danita has demonstrated the ability to develop a positive and inspiring work culture, and she has done a tremendous job connecting with the communities in which she has lived and worked. We are thrilled that she has agreed to join us at this critical moment in D.C. United’s trajectory.”

Photo via DC United