By Hola Iowa
Carla Beste, who has worked with Proteus since 1991, will serve as interim CEO while the board conducts a national search for the organization’s next leader.
Des Moines, IA – Dr. Daniel Zinnel, CEO of Proteus, Inc., will step down later this summer after seven years leading the nonprofit and 14 total years with the organization.
Proteus announced that Zinnel is leaving the role to pursue another opportunity. His tenure as CEO began in August 2019 and included a period of growth for the organization, which serves farmworkers and their families across Iowa, Nebraska and Indiana.
“The Board of Directors thanks Daniel for his leadership and service to Proteus, Inc., including expanding programming, strengthening and diversifying the organization’s budget, and leading successful fundraising efforts in support of farmworkers,” said Kristin Hoffman, board president. “As we look ahead, Proteus, Inc. remains focused on expanding access to critical services for farmworkers and their families across the region.”
Chief Financial Officer Carla Beste will serve as interim CEO after Zinnel’s departure. Beste has more than three decades of experience with Proteus, having joined the organization in 1991 and served in several leadership roles.
Zinnel first joined Proteus in 2007 as a career coach and regional director for the National Farmworker Jobs Program. He later held leadership roles with other nonprofit organizations, including serving as executive director of One Iowa, before returning to Proteus as CEO in 2019.
“Agricultural workers are essential, playing a significant role in our Midwest economy and beyond,” Zinnel said. “It has been my honor to serve some of the most hardworking and resilient people I have ever known. The work Proteus, Inc. does to empower farmworkers through job training, education assistance, and healthcare access is deeply impactful. I am grateful to the entire team for their trust and support, and I am confident the organization will continue to thrive in the years ahead.”
Founded in 1979, Proteus will mark 50 years of service in 2029. The organization continues to support agricultural workers and their families through job training, educational assistance and access to healthcare.
Proteus is a multi-state 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving farmworkers and their families in Iowa, Nebraska and Indiana. To learn more about Proteus, Inc. or view career opportunities, visit www.proteusinc.net.
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