Lisa Baird has been named commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League ©NWSL

Former United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) chief marketing officer Lisa Baird has been appointed commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

Baird, who left the USOPC in August 2018, will begin her new position with the country's professional women's soccer league on March 10.

She replaces Amanda Duffy, who effectively became commissioner when she was named President of the league in January 2019.

Duffy, who took over from Jeff Plush, stepped down last month after a year in the role to become executive vice-president at NWSL team Orlando Pride.

Baird joins the NWSL from New York Public Radio, where she served as chief marketing officer for more than a year.

Lisa Baird will take up her new role with the league on March 10 ©Getty Images
Lisa Baird will take up her new role with the league on March 10 ©Getty Images

The NWSL said Baird had "emerged....as the clear choice" for the commissioner's job following what the league claim was a "comprehensive" search.

"As a long-time fan of the game and the players, I am excited to be joining the league at this time," Baird said. 

"The NWSL has tremendous positive momentum and a clear path towards growth."

NWSL Executive Committee chairman Steve Malik said the league was "thrilled" to name Baird as commissioner.

"Her impressive background at the forefront of sports and commercial business for some of the most iconic properties worldwide will be instrumental to the future success and growth of the league," Malik said.