Doug Fesler named OPTN Executive Director

Published on: Monday, September 8, 2025

The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) is pleased to announce the selection of Doug Fesler as its new Executive Director effective September 2, 2025, following a rigorous national search for a top-level executive by the Officers of the OPTN Board of Directors. In this role, he will oversee operation, administration, and transition efforts as part of the OPTN Modernization.

Mr. Fesler is an accomplished association executive with more than two decades of leadership experience in healthcare and scientific organizations. He brings to the OPTN a proven record of driving strategic growth, modernizing organizational frameworks, and fostering collaboration across clinical, research, and policy domains.

Previously, Mr. Fesler served as Executive Director of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR), where he guided the organization through a period of significant transformation. His leadership expanded stakeholder engagement, implemented governance reforms, and strengthened operational infrastructure, all in support of advancing global research in bone and mineral science.

“Doug’s proven ability to bring people together around shared goals will be invaluable as OPTN embarks on this next chapter,” said Dr. John Magee, President of the OPTN Board of Directors. “His experience leading organizational transformation and his commitment to transparency and collaboration will strengthen OPTN’s capacity to serve patients, families, and the transplant community nationwide.”

Throughout his career, Mr. Fesler has consistently aligned varied communities—including clinicians, scientists, policymakers, and patient advocates—to advance complex healthcare initiatives. His expertise spans nonprofit strategy, membership development, advocacy, governance modernization, and digital innovation.

In his new role, Mr. Fesler will work closely with the OPTN Board of Directors, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and stakeholders nationwide. Together, they will build on the OPTN’s strong foundation while advancing efforts to improve transparency, enhance patient outcomes, and modernize the national transplant system.

“It is an honor to join OPTN at such a pivotal time,” said Mr. Fesler. “I am committed to working hand-in-hand with the Board, HRSA, and the entire transplant community to strengthen trust, expand access, and ensure that every decision we make advances fairness, transparency, and improved outcomes for patients and families across the nation.”

Mr. Fesler resides in Arlington, Virginia, with his wife and two sons. He is actively engaged in community volunteerism and is an avid gardener and outdoor enthusiast, currently pursuing a personal goal of hiking in every U.S. national park.

Please join us in welcoming Doug Fesler as he assumes this critical leadership role within OPTN.