Gotham FC announced new leadership changes on Friday. Mark Zarthar has been appointed club president and general manager Yael Averbuch West has been promoted to president of soccer operations.
Zarthar will oversee all business operations and will be tasked with leading Gotham FC’s commercial strategy.
“I’m honored to step into this role and continue building Gotham FC into a leading global brand,” Zarthar said in a statement. “This club has incredible momentum, and I’m excited to work alongside our leadership team to deepen our connection with fans, partners and the broader community while driving long-term growth.”
He previously served as chief revenue officer for the Florida Panthers of the NHL.
Averbuch West Promoted to President of Soccer Operations
Averbuch West will continue to lead all of Gotham FC’s sporting endeavors. Having initially returned to the club as interim general manager in 2021, her vision as permanent general manager and head of soccer operations helped Gotham capture two NWSL championships (2023, 2025) and a victory at the inaugural 2024-25 Concacaf W Champions Cup.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue leading our sporting vision at Gotham FC,” Averbuch West said. “We are building something truly special, and our focus remains on competing for championships while developing an environment where players and staff can perform at the highest level.”
Carolyn Tisch Blodgett: ‘Gotham FC Continues Raises Standards’
Gotham FC governor and chair of the NWSL executive committee Carolyn Tisch Blodgett spoke of the club’s continued ambition.
“From day one, our ambition has been bigger than winning championships alone – we are building one of the most iconic sports brands in the world and a club that helps define the future of women’s sports,” Tisch Blodgett said. “To achieve that vision, we need exceptional leadership across every part of the organization. Mark brings the experience, strategic and commercial mindset to help us accelerate our growth and deepen our connection with fans, partners and communities. Yael has built one of the premier soccer operations in the world and established a culture that consistently competes for trophies. Together, this team positions Gotham FC to continue raising the standard both on and off the pitch as we enter our next chapter.”
Ryan Dillon, who served as Gotham FC’s chief business officer over the past two and a half years, returns to Next 3 in the role of chief growth officer. Gotham set the highest attendance figures in club history, landed key corporate partnerships and increased revenue under Dillon’s leadership.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together over the past two and a half years,” Dillon said. “What started as an investment became a mission, and together we helped turn an investment thesis into a case study for what women’s sports can become, both commercially and culturally. The club’s best days are still ahead, and I’m excited to remain closely connected as Gotham FC enters its next chapter.”
Gotham FC is currently in fifth place in the NWSL standings as the defending league champions look to earn back-to-back NWSL titles.
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