Atlanta United names new VP of Business Operations

Atlanta United announced on Monday that they’ve hired Catie Griggs as the club’s new Vice President of Business Operations. She replaces Ann Rodriguez who departed the club this summer to pursue a career with the WNBA.

Griggs will be tasked with leading integrated marketing, strategy and operations for Atlanta United. Her tenure with the club will begin on August 29.

“Catie is an excellent addition to Atlanta United’s leadership team. She brings a diverse set of skills that will help the club continue to build on an incredible start, strengthen existing partnerships and elevate fan engagement,” said Darren Eales in a press release provided by the club. “Most importantly, we see Catie as a perfect fit for our team’s entrepreneurial culture and her leadership qualities and values-orientation as great assets to the growth of our team and associates.”

Griggs comes to Atlanta United from Futures Sport & Entertainment, a cross-platform media and sponsorships analytics consultancy that is part of the Interpublic Group of Agencies. Griggs launched the firm’s Americas operations in 2015 and has led it to significant client and revenue growth over the last two years. In addition to leading strategy and operations, Griggs served as senior consultant to numerous properties and brands served by Futures, advising on audience acquisition and commercialization opportunities domestically and abroad.

Prior to joining Futures Sport & Entertainment, Griggs spent five years at Turner Broadcasting in various roles, including strategy, business operations, strategic partnerships, and business development. Earlier this month Griggs was recognized by Sports Business Journal as a Game Changer, which honors women making an impact across the sports landscape. The North Carolina native holds B.A. and MBA degrees from Dartmouth College.

“Atlanta is my home and I've experienced the impact Atlanta United already has made on the city firsthand,” said Griggs in the release. “I couldn't be more excited to have the opportunity to work with Darren and the team to help build upon the unprecedented success the club has experienced in its inaugural season.”

Welcome to the club, Catie!