HONOLULU — An executive search process that started fmonths ago culminated with the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority landing a new chief administrative officer.
Daniel Naho‘opi‘i was announced as the chief administrative officer for the tourism authority on Tuesday, Jan. 17. His appointment marks a return to the organization, where he previously served as director of research from 2006-17.
His appointment was effective on Tuesday.
“Daniel has an intricate understanding of HTA and Hawai‘i’s visitor industry, and brings a wealth of experience in tourism management, planning, business operations and performance evaluation,” said Hawai‘i Tourism Authority CEO and President John De Fries in a statement.
“He is well-respected among community and business leaders statewide and will hit the ground running.”
Naho‘opi‘i takes over for acting Chief Administrative Officer Marc Togashi, who pulled double-duty during the search.
“We are grateful to our Vice President of Finance Marc Togashi, who served as acting chief administrative officer in addition to fulfilling his regular duties for the past five months as we conducted the executive search process,” De Fries said.
During his previous run with the tourism authority, Naho‘opi‘i led the organization’s statewide Tourism Strategic Plan process. He also oversaw the research department, managed production and interpretation of data related to the state’s visitor industry, and worked with government officials, lawmakers, community members and industry stakeholders.
Naho‘opi‘i most recently served as vice president of SMS Research &Marketing Services of Honolulu.
He was born and raised in Honolulu, and holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa and a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Northwestern University.
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Wyatt Haupt Jr., editor, can be reached at 808-245-0457 or whaupt@thegardenisland.com.
Source: The Garden Island
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