Chris Henderson named Inter Miami’s chief soccer officer, sporting director

Inter Miami CF have a new boss in charge of soccer operations.

They announced Monday morning that Chris Henderson will be their chief soccer officer and sporting director.

Henderson, who came to South Florida after 13 years as a part of the Seattle Sounders’ front office, filled the void left by Paul McDonough after he stepped down as the club’s first sporting director.

On Monday, the team also announced their new head coach, Phil Neville, a former teammate of Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham.

Henderson has extensive experience in Major League Soccer. He played in the league from 1996-2006 — including for the Miami Fusion in 2001. He joined the Sounders as their technical director in 2008 ahead of their inaugural season in 2009 before being named to his current role after the 2014 season.

Seattle’s won four U.S. Open Cups, two MLS Cups and a Supporters’ Shield since entering into the league, with Henderson being considered the Sounders lead talent-evaluator during his time with the club.

He’ll manage all of the club’s soccer operations.

“This is an incredible opportunity for me to take the next step in my career, return back to South Florida and solidify my mark on this league,” Henderson said in a statement. “I have always believed in the Inter Miami project and the club’s ability to become a powerhouse not only in MLS but across the global soccer industry.

“My goal is to work with the technical staff to ensure we have a roster that fits the style of soccer we want while maintaining a healthy pipeline of youth, league wide and international players who could contribute to the team’s success on and off the field. I’m looking forward to joining Inter Miami’s journey and reconnecting with the fanbase in South Florida.”