DOWNTOWN — John Pacheco, the chief executive director of the American Red Cross of Santa Monica for the last eight years, is stepping down effective Jan. 2, 2012, according to a statement released by the organization Thursday.
Pacheco, who served as a combat medic during the Vietnam War, has spent the last 35 years with the American Red Cross in the Los Angeles area. He is credited with turning around the Santa Monica chapter, which was said to be in bad financial shape when he arrived.
Under his leadership, the chapter’s management structure was stabilized, an active and dedicated new Board of Directors was recruited and the chapter’s services to the community expanded. It is a key blood donor center and a major provider of CPR, first aid and water safety training, locally, according to the statement.
“It has truly been an incredibly rewarding experience here with the ‘Cross,’ made possible by the marvelous people I have had the opportunity to serve with over these years,” Pacheco said.
Upon his retirement, Pacheco will become president and CEO of a new company called Innovative Disaster Solutions, which will provide disaster preparedness planning and consulting for small and mid-size companies.
Carol Evans, former CEO of the Santa Cruz Red Cross, will take over as interim CEO. She will reside in Santa Monica until a full-time CEO is appointed, according to the statement.
news@www.smdp.com