The American Red Cross Board of Governors named Mark W. Everson the next president and CEO of the Red Cross, effective May 29. The vote was taken at a regularly scheduled meeting of the full board.

“On behalf of the entire Board, the Red Cross is delighted to welcome such a capable and compassionate leader whose proven experience and leadership skills will bring valuable expertise to better prepare the American Red Cross to prevent, prepare and respond to the nation’s critical needs,” said Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, chairman of the Red Cross. “We know Mark will bring new energy and drive terrific results when his tenure officially begins next month.”

Everson has worked in both the public and private sectors. He has served as the commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service since May 5, 2003. In this capacity, he developed and implemented a five-year strategic plan for the $10 billion, 100,000-person agency, which connected vision with measurable results. Everson earlier served as deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget where he chaired the President’s Management Council and was charged with strengthening and improving federal management and program performance. In the private sector, Everson served as group vice president of finance for SC International, a $2 billion privately owned food services company.

“It is an honor and a privilege to become part of such a vital and enduring humanitarian service organization,” Everson says. “The Red Cross reaches out to those in need in communities across the nation and around the world. I look forward to working with the outstanding volunteers, staff and board during this defining period in the history of the Red Cross.”

Everson replaces Interim President and CEO Jack McGuire, who will continue as executive vice president for biomedical services.