Kesslers Diamonds: John Hooyman joins Kesslers Diamonds as CFO

Germantown, Wis. – John Hooyman has been named chief financial officer of Kesslers Diamonds. In his new role, Hooyman will help position the seven-store retailer for continued expansion and added value for its employee owners.

“John was well regarded by his previous employer for helping that company realize tremendous growth,” said Joe Gehrke, president of Kesslers Diamonds. “He understands how a powerful culture can bring about great results and outcomes if focused correctly, and will be a critical part of the future of this company.”

Prior to joining Kesslers Diamonds, Hooyman spent more than 18 years at Milwaukee-based Direct Supply, the nation’s leading provider of equipment, e-commerce and service solutions for senior living. He most recently was vice president of finance -– corporate financial planning and analysis.

“When I was looking into the opportunity with Kesslers Diamonds, I saw in the company the same culture, excitement and energy that so well benefited Direct Supply,” Hooyman said, noting that company’s phenomenal growth over the past two decades. “Kesslers Diamonds really is in a great position for growth.”

Like Kesslers Diamonds, Direct Supply is an employee-owned company — another factor which Hooyman found attractive.

“I was also very impressed with company President Joe Gehrke’s vision for the company, building on Richard Kessler’s 38 years of leadership,” Hooyman said. Gerhke joined Kesslers Diamonds as president last June, with Richard Kessler remaining as chief executive officer and chairman of the board of directors.

The creation of a CFO position was an essential part of the company’s aggressive growth plans, Gehrke said.

Hooyman, who grew up near Lambeau Field in Ashwaubenon, is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and is a licensed CPA. Outside of work, Hooyman enjoys spending time with his wife and two young daughters and their activities, including time as a softball coach.