The Central California Blood Center has a new CEO to spearhead the nonprofit’s mission of providing blood to area hospitals.

With her 30 years of experience in blood banking, Christine Hayes will take over as president and CEO of the organization, according to a news release from the organization.

Hayes replaces former CEO Christopher Staub, who became an independent consultant for blood and biotech companies, according to his LinkedIn account.

“I am honored to join the Central California Blood Center and work alongside such a dedicated team committed to providing a safe and reliable blood supply,” Hayes said. “I look forward to building on the Central California Blood Center’s legacy of service and innovation, engaging with our community partners, and ensuring that every donation contributes to saving lives across our region.”

Hayes Has 22 Years of Blood Center Leadership

Hayes comes to Fresno by way of Des Moines, Iowa, where she served as chief operating officer for LifeServe Blood Center. She worked at LifeServe for more than 30 years, 22 of which were spent in leadership roles, according to the release. The $50 million not-for-profit is among the 15 largest community-based blood centers in the U.S., servicing Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, and South Dakota.

While there, she expanded blood collection, donor recruitment, and component manufacturing programs.

She has also served on several boards and committees, including the National Blood Collaborative, America’s Blood Centers, and the Association of Donor Recruitment Professionals, where she was a past president.

She has a bachelor’s in business administration from Iowa State University.

The Central California Blood Center provides blood to more than 20 hospitals in Fresno, Tulare, Madera, Kings, and Mariposa counties.

Those interested in donating blood can visit donateblood.org.