To support the ongoing growth of Bernie’s Book Bank, the organization today announced it has appointed Darrin Utynek as Chief Executive Officer, a new role to the organization. Founder Brian Floriani will transition to Founder and Chief Advancement Officer.
Utynek brings a wealth of experience to Bernie’s Book Bank. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer of the American Red Cross. His responsibilities included business operations of the Chicago and Northern Illinois Region, the fourth largest region in the country.
Prior to that, Utynek held a variety of leadership roles in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors; he served as the Vice President of Administration for the Habitat Company and as the Senior Director of Risk Management for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. As CEO, Utynek will apply his diverse experience to lead the organization and advance the mission of Bernie’s Book Bank.
Utynek will be the first CEO of Bernie’s Book Bank. Since the creation of this nonprofit organization in 2009, founder Brian Floriani has served as the Executive Director. Moving forward, Floriani will assume the role of Founder and Chief Advancement Officer, focused on strategic fundraising, partner management and nationwide market expansion.
“I have never been more excited about our mission and the future of Bernie’s Book Bank, especially for the children we serve and will serve,” shared Floriani. “I am grateful for the dedication of the team who has done incredible work to get us to where we are today. Our organization will rise to a whole new level with Darrin Utynek as CEO.”
The addition of a CEO strengthens the organization as Bernie’s Book Bank works toward its long-term goal to replicate in every major city across the country.
“We are excited to welcome Darrin to the Bernie’s Book Bank team as our new CEO,” said Jamie Wildman, Bernie’s Book Bank Board of Directors Chair. “As the organization continues to grow and evolve, we require additional organizational leadership to execute our plan. The Board of Directors is confident in Darrin’s ability to take our organization to the next level.”
Utynek assumes CEO responsibilities on May 21, 2018. “I am honored and excited to join such an amazing organization. The opportunity to work with a visionary founder, exceptional Board of Directors, and high-quality team is what drew me to Bernie’s Book Bank,” shared Utynek. “I believe the organization is uniquely positioned to build on its success.”
Congrats to Bernie’s book bank and Mr Utynek!
Exciting times! Congrats to all at Bernie’s Book Bank:)
Congratulations to all of you at Bernie’s Book Bank! This is such exciting news. A dream to reality because of your vision Brian! Welcome Darrin.