By Lookout Staff
 
March 5, 2012 -- The Santa Monica Red Cross has hired a top official of a Boston homeless services agency to become the organization's Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Wendy S. Jacobs, who most recently held the title of Deputy Executive Director and Chief Development Officer of Heading Home, brings "an extensive background in fundraising and public relations for both non profits and private corporations," Red Cross officials said in a statement.

At Heading Home, Jacobs spearheaded the organization's long term strategic planning process and managed the non profit's Board of Directors in ensure fulfillment of funding development goals, Red Cross officials said.

Jacobs, 33, will take over the post immediately. She will replace John Pacheco, a 35-year veteran of the Red Cross who helped turn Santa Monica's troubled chapter into one of the strongest and most successful in the system, serving eight years as its CEO.

Before joining Heading Home, Jacobs was Vice President of Business Development for the real estate firm of CB Richard Ellis/New England. Previously, she was Director of Fundraising for the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Senior Public Relations Manager for Raytheon Company in Massachusetts.

At the Santa Monica Red Cross, Jacobs will "oversee the chapter's activities and will be heavily involved in fundraising," Red Cross officials said.

In addition to overseeing day-to-day operations -- which include disaster preparedness and relief functions -- Jacobs will be in charge of staff and volunteer responsibilities and "working with the chapter's Board of Directors on Red Cross initiatives and goals," officials said.

Her first major project is the chapter's annual fundraiser, the Red Tie Affair on April 21.

Jacobs graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Boston University. She is still active with the Democratic National Committee where she is involved in securing political donations and soliciting support from major donors.