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Local Red Cross chapter selects new executive director

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David Diestler, executive director of the South Central Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross

JANESVILLE — David Diestler is eager to start as the new executive director of the South Central Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross.

He won’t have to wait.

Diestler, 48, Janesville, accepted the position Tuesday, and that was his starting date.

“He owns his own business and doesn’t have to give notice to another place of business,” said Brian Anderson, board chairman.

The board of directors approved his hiring in a unanimous vote Monday night, Anderson said.

Diestler was among 14 applicants from as far away as Puerto Rico, Anderson said.

Three finalists were interviewed, and two had second interviews.

Anderson said Diestler stood out from the others.

“He has a very strong marketing background, has run his own marketing business the past 20 years and has been very successful.”

Much of the selection process came down to personality, Anderson said.

“He’s a very likable guy. That will let him make favorable contacts in the community that will warrant someone wanting to volunteer and donate to the Red Cross,” he said.

In a volunteer-based organization, Diestler’s team approach also is a must, Anderson said.

Diestler is a Rock County Board supervisor, representing District 9 northwest of Janesville. He also is zoning officer for Harmony and Rock townships. He has a history of volunteering, including at the Red Cross this past year. Diestler earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in marketing from UW-Whitewater.

He replaced Kyle Kriegl, interim executive director, who was with the local chapter from mid-March to mid-May before taking the top post at the Red Cross chapter in Eau Claire, Anderson said.

Kriegl replaced Kevin Huddleston, who left the South Central Wisconsin Red Cross chapter in February to become executive director of the Ronald McDonald House in Madison.

Having a permanent, full-time executive director again solidifies the communication, structure and teamwork, Anderson said.

Diestler said he is honored to take over at the local Red Cross.

“I’m looking forward to working with the community and staff here.”