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THE SPIRIT OF ALOHA STARTS HERE

Discover Waikīkī, a vibrant blend of history and modernity, right here in the
heart of the pacific. Once a cherished retreat for Hawaiian royalty, today’s
Waikīkī thrives as an active resort and residential community, attracting a
diverse global clientele. Renowned for its iconic white sandy beaches and
exhilarating surf, Waikīkī is not just a destination but an experience, offering
an extensive selection of accommodations, restaurants, entertainment, and
shopping venues.

The Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID) embodies a powerful synergy of
business, government, and community efforts, all working hand-in-hand towards a
shared vision: to maintain a clean, safe, and vibrant resort area that stays
true to its Hawaiian heritage. Our commitment is to create an inviting and
memorable experience for both visitors and residents, contributing significantly
to the economic prosperity of Oahu and the state of Hawaiʻi. Learn more about
the WBID by watching our exclusive documentary here:

About Us
Request Services
Aloha Ambassadors

KEEPING WAIKĪKĪ CLEAN AND SAFE

SAFE & SOUND WAIKĪKĪ

HOUSELESS & MENTAL HEALTH OUTREACH

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS & TRAININGS

EVENTS IN WAIKĪKĪ

View All Events
13
July
Sat

FAMILY DAY PARADE (GOD’S OHANA DAY PARADE)

FAMILY DAY PARADE (GOD'S OHANA DAY PARADE)

Date July 13, 2024Time 9:00 am - 11:00 pmVenue Kalakaua Ave

FAMILY DAY PARADE (GOD’S OHANA DAY PARADE) sponsored by Prayer Center of the
Pacific.

03
August
Sat

2024 HAWAII HEART WALK

Date August 3, 2024Time 6:30 am - 10:00 amVenue Kalakaua Ave

sponsored by the American Heart Association

04
August
Sun

NA WAHINE SPRINT TRIATHLON

Date August 4, 2024Time 5:00 am - 10:00 amVenue Kalakaua Ave

Sponsored by USA Triathlon/Try Fitness. The event is expected to have 300
triathletes.

WAIKĪKĪ NEWS AND UPDATES

SECOND CHANCE, FORMER INMATE HIRING PROGRAM, SUPPORTS WAIKĪKĪ’S ALOHA
AMBASSADORS

Trevor Abarzua, WBID president and executive director, said the organization has
more than 60 Aloha Ambassadors, and 16 of them are in the second-chance program,
which has helped augment the expanding program’s needs. That’s up from 10
second-chance employees in 2023.

BEYOND THE BEACH BLOG:
INSIGHTS FROM WBID

“LIGHT UP THE NIGHT” IN WAIKĪKĪ BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER

“Light Up the Night” was more than just a bike ride; it was a celebration of
community, safety, and the shared goal of creating a welcoming, secure
environment for everyone in Waikiki.



WAIKIKIBID

🌺 Mahalo to everyone who made our 2024 Annual M
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 Our Aloha Ambassador pro
The Waikiki Business Improvement District, in coll
Spreading aloha beyond smiles and greetings, our d
Empowering Aloha 🌺✨: A monumental day for the
Committed to beauty and sustainability 🌺✨ Our
Spreading aloha at the Capitol! 🌺 Our Aloha Amb
Ringing in 2024 with unwavering dedication, the Wa

RIDE THE NEWS WAVE

Stay connected with the pulse of Waikīkī by signing up for our newsletter.
Receive the latest updates, news, and events directly from the Waikīkī Business
Improvement District to keep you informed and engaged

MAHALO FOR SIGNING UP!

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Waikīkī Business Improvement District Association
Wyndham Waikīkī Beach Walk
Plantation Tower, Second Floor
227 Lewers Street, Box 202
Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96815
Call Us: (808) 923-9243

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Suzanne Kirio

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Suzanne Kirio is the Administrative Director for the Waikiki Business
Improvement District (WBID), providing administrative, technical and archival
support to carry out the activities and program services of the organization.
Ms. Kirio joined WBID as Program Coordinator in March 2002.

Ms. Kirio received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Travel Industry Management
with a Minor in Music Performance; and a Master of Business Administration from
the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

CLOSE
Katie Kaahanui

EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR OF SAFE & SOUND

Katie Kaahanui was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. Deeply inspired by the
intersections of criminal justice and mental health locally, she completed her
practicum hours at the Oahu Public Defender’s Office and served as an academic
tutor at Halawa Correctional Facility. She is thrilled to serve as the Executive
Coordinator for Safe & Sound Waikiki and is a strong advocate for creating safe,
supportive communities that encourage holistic healing on a mind, body, and soul
level.

She holds a BA in Justice Administration from UH West Oahu, an MS in Criminal
Justice from Chaminade University, and is currently pursuing an additional MS in
Counseling Psychology from Chaminade University. Passionate about giving back to
her community, she also currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Hawaii
Women in Filmmaking, the Samaritan Counseling Center Hawaii, and the Honolulu
Chapter of Executive Women International.

CLOSE
Robert Lee

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Robert is a seasoned customer service professional with over 30 years of
industry experience. He has a proven track record, with more than 20 years
dedicated to Aloha Airlines and ten years at the Hawaii Theatre. Robert excels
in providing exceptional customer service and effectively managing customer
complaints. His operational expertise has significantly enhanced productivity
across various brands and fostered positive relationships with external
partners. Known for his ability to pinpoint ineffective processes, Robert
implements technological solutions and introduces new best practices to enhance
efficiency and drive success. He is highly motivated and always looking for
opportunities to improve products, create conducive environments for success,
and add significant value to organizations.

CLOSE
Dave Willard

VICE PRESIDENT AND DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Accomplished operations leader with an innovative, forward-looking style. Strong
passion for assembling teams to address challenging issues related to safety,
security, groundskeeping, and facilities maintenance in public spaces.

Reputation throughout career for integrity and professionalism, combined with a
proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, rapidly-changing environments. Builds
effective working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
Background includes careers in Naval Aviation Maintenance and Operations
Management in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors.

Educational credentials include a M.A. Degree in Social and Civic
Entrepreneurship and B.S. in Organizational Leadership. Additional coursework
includes; Green Belt and Six Sigma Methods, Operational Risk Management, Legal
Policy Compliance, Lean Manufacturing and the Theory of Constraints.

CLOSE
Trevor Abarzua

PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Trevor Abarzua, President and Executive Director of the Waikiki Business
Improvement District since May 2023, brings an ambitious and strategic vision to
his leadership role, emphasizing the mission of creating a clean and safe
Waikiki. Under his direction, the district has intensified efforts to reduce
crime, address homelessness, and enhance cleanliness, greatly improving the
area’s appeal to both locals and visitors.

Prior to leading the Waikiki Business Improvement District, Trevor was the
Associate Vice President of Business Advocacy & Development at the Chamber of
Commerce Hawaii, where he shaped legislative and public policy priorities that
profoundly affected the business landscape. His tenure at the Arizona Commerce
Authority as Vice President of Business Attraction saw him successfully
attracting over $1 billion in capital investments and creating thousands of
jobs, showcasing his capability in driving economic growth. Trevor has also
served in significant roles for notable leaders such as Senator John McCain and
Governor Doug Ducey, which enhanced his expertise in governance and policy
implementation.

Trevor holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Arizona State
University, where his participation in the U.S. Capitol Scholar Program
furthered his understanding of policy and legislative processes. Married to his
wife Jaena, Trevor enjoys an active community life in Kailua. His profound
leadership skills and strategic vision are pivotal in ensuring that Waikiki
thrives as a premier destination and community.

CLOSE
Tommy Waters

COUNCIL MEMBER FOR DISTRICT 4 – HONOLULU CITY COUNCIL

Chair Tommy Waters has served his community for the past 38 years, currently as
City Council Chair and council member for District IV.

He first served on the Kailua Neighborhood Board, law clerk to a Circuit Court
Judge, as a trial attorney for the State of Hawai’i and as a Hawai’i State
Legislator. During his service as a Hawai’i State Representative, he served as
Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Higher Education Committee and the Joint
Senate-House Task Force on Ice and Drug Abatement.

CLOSE
Andy Sugg

CHIEF OF STAFF – CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU

Sugg previously served as a television executive in Hawai‘i and has years of
experience in working alongside Mayor Blangiardi. Their long-standing
professional partnership will allow them to immediately focus on strategic
initiatives that benefit our communities.

Originally hailing from Buffalo, New York, Sugg’s decision to return to Honolulu
underscores his commitment to serving the people of Oʻahu and contributing to
the continued progress and well-being of the city. During his previous stint in
Hawai‘i, Sugg gained valuable insights into the unique needs and aspirations of
our communities, and his understanding of the local culture — combined with his
professional expertise — positions him as an invaluable asset to Mayor
Blangiardi’s team.

As Chief of Staff, he will play a pivotal role in advancing the Mayor’s vision
for the city and ensuring effective governance. His background in media and his
familiarity with the intricacies of city affairs make him well-suited to
navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Sugg is a St. Lawrence University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in English.
He is an eight-time Associated Press Award winner, five-time Murrow Award winner
and four-time Emmy Award winner. He has also served on the board of the Juvenile
Diabetes Research Foundation in Hawai’i and New England.

CLOSE
Major James Slayter

MAJOR OF DISTRICT 6 – HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT

Major James Slayter is a 28-year veteran of the Honolulu Police Department. He
grew up in Waimea on the Big Island, but has called Oahu home for over 30
years. As a young officer in HPD, he held patrol assignments in both Kalihi and
Waikiki including assignments with the Bicycle/ATV Detail and Crime Reduction
Unit. Major Slayter has also held assignments with the Training Division,
Criminal Investigation Division, Traffic Division and the Office of the Chief.
On December 10, 2023, he was promoted to the rank of major, and assigned as the
commander for District 6, Waikiki.

CLOSE
Julie Plant

VICE PRESIDENT OF RETAIL – HONOLULU COOKIE COMPANY

Julie Plant is the Vice President of Retail at the Honolulu Cookie Company,
where for the past 10 years has directed a team of great leaders for the
operations, visual merchandising, and sales revenue at the stores in their Las
Vegas, Guam and Hawaii Regions while also overseeing the company’s Customer
Service call center and Corporate Sales department. Her dedication and
commitment to this role is advanced by living the vision of the company “to
share the spirit of aloha with world class products and experiences.”

Julie is a member of the Senior Management team that is responsible for the
short-and long-term strategic planning which includes the overall growth of the
company and expansion of their retail locations which are now located in
Hawaii, Las Vegas and Guam.

Julie has 35 years of Retail Management experience in the Hawaii market having
held Director positions in companies such as McInerny, Philips Van Heusen, Price
Busters, and G.H. Bass. She previously owned hotel gift shops in the Florida
market before moving to Hawaii in 1989. She was a moderator for the Annual ICSC
(International Council of Shopping Centers) Hawaii Idea Exchange in 2020. She
has served on multiple advisory boards over the years and served three years as
Chairperson for the Retail Merchants of Hawaii, is a board member of the Waikiki
Improvement Association as well as the Waikiki Business Improvement District and
the S.J. Foundation.

Julie passionately believes it is vital to engage with not only your customers
but also your entire staff to develop leaders while keeping the energy and
excitement in the workplace. It is imperative that you network and build
professional relationships with all aspects of your business to stay apprised of
the ever-changing retail market.

Julie is an avid traveler, enjoys cooking and gardening. She is originally
from Canada but gave up the cold over 35 years ago to live in paradise…..
Hawaii.

CLOSE
Chi Mok

DIRECTOR OF ROOM OPERATIONS – WAIKIKI BEACH MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA

Chi Mok is the accomplished Director of Room Operations at Waikiki Beach
Marriott Resort & Spa, where he has dedicated 28 of his 32 years in the
hospitality industry. Starting his career at the front desk, Chi quickly
demonstrated his aptitude and commitment, advancing through various roles
including Night Audit, Bell/Valet, and Manager on Duty. His extensive experience
encompasses significant positions such as Director of Safety & Security and
Market Director of Safety & Security for Hawaii and French Polynesia,
underscoring his broad expertise and leadership capabilities.

Beyond his professional achievements, Chi is deeply engaged in community
service. He serves as the Vice President of HHVISA and is a member of the WBID
Board. Chi also represents the hotel in critical community initiatives,
coordinating with Next Step and Keauhou Shelter, and the Blood Bank of Hawaii.
His contributions extend to assisting the HPD with the HONU Program,
facilitating donations of essential items like bedding, towels, and toiletries
from the Marriott Safety & Security Group. Chi’s leadership not only enhances
the guest experience but also significantly impacts the community, making him a
respected figure in both the hospitality and local sectors.

CLOSE
Darcy Lindamood

VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING AND OUTSIDE SALES – CRAZY SHIRTS

Darcy Lindamood is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience
in direct-to-consumer, ecommerce, retail marketing and database marketing.
Throughout her dynamic career, she has left her mark on renowned brands such as
Ballard Design, Yankee Candle, Orvis, and Sharper Image.

For over a decade, Darcy serves as the VP of Marketing and Outside Sales at
Crazy Shirts, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing marketing,
direct-to-consumer sales & operations, wholesale and custom product divisions,
and ecommerce strategies. Her strategic vision and leadership have been
instrumental in driving growth and fostering innovation within the company.

Beyond her corporate endeavors, Darcy is deeply committed to giving back to her
community. She has been a staunch supporter of numerous non-profit
organizations, including the Red Cross of Hawaii, Hawaiian Humane Society, and
Maui Humane Society. Through her philanthropic efforts, Darcy continues to make
a positive impact on the lives of others, both professionally and personally.

CLOSE
Andrew Kawano

DIRECTOR OF BUDGET AND FISCAL SERVICES – CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU

Mr. Kawano began his career in public accounting in 1983 with Arthur Young, a
predecessor firm of Ernst & Young. In 1995, he left public accounting as a
senior audit manager at Ernst & Young to take on the role of Controller at Food
Pantry, Ltd, a diverse operator of grocery stores, visitor convenience stores
and hotel sundry and resort wear shops. He was promoted to vice president –
finance in January 2000, and worked closely with the company’s executive team on
the expansion of hotel and resort shop operations to the U.S. mainland and
diversification into other retail divisions serving the traveling public. Mr.
Kawano was promoted to chief financial officer in January 2005 and expanded his
responsibilities to oversee the accounting and finance functions for the
Sullivan family of companies. From 2005 through early January 2021, he took on
operational, technology and facilities management assignments for Foodland and
its affiliates. He has been the Director of Budget and Fiscal Services at the
City & County of Honolulu since January 2021.

He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a major in Accounting
from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and received his Certified Public
Accountant certification in 1983.

Mr. Kawano has served on the volunteer boards of Alzheimer Association of Hawaii
and Hawaii Pacific Health. Mr. Kawano is currently a volunteer board member of
the HPH Medical Group. He also represents the City & County of Honolulu on the
Board of the Waikiki Business Improvement District Association as an ex-officio
member.

CLOSE
Mike Kass

GENERAL MANAGER ‘ALOHILANI RESORT WAIKIKI BEACH

In his new role, Kass serves as GM at the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach and
support Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, located on Maui’s Ka’anapali Beach.

“Mike’s passion for curating incredible guest experiences and providing warm,
high-quality service makes him an ideal fit for Highgate,” said Kelly Sanders,
EVP, operations, Highgate. “We’re confident that his expertise in hotel
operations and his impressive track record of success take these beloved
properties to new heights.”

An experienced hospitality industry executive with more than 25 years of
experience, Kass joins Highgate from Marriott International. He most recently
served as GM for The Westin Maui Resort & Spa. Prior, he served as GM of the San
Francisco Marriott Marquis, the largest Marriott hotel on the West cCoast, where
he oversaw a $140 million hotel refurbishment. Kass has also held hotel
management positions with The Ritz Carlton Hotel Company at Kapalua Resort in
Kapalua, HI, and Dove Mountain Resort in Tucson, AZ.

CLOSE
Dave Kajihiro

COMPLEX DIRECTOR OF SAFETY & SECURITY – KYO-YA HOTELS AND RESORTS

Dave Kajihiro is currently the Complex Director of Safety & Security for Kyo-ya
Hotels and Resorts. Is a retired Deputy Chief of Police from the Honolulu Police
Department. Has a bachelor’s degree in Communications and Media from the
University of Hawaii at Manoa and a graduate of the Federal Bureau of
Investigation National Academy. Also serves on the Board of Directors for the
Honolulu Police Community Foundation, Waikiki Beach Special Improvement District
Association, and the Hawaii Hotel Visitor Industry Security Association.

CLOSE
Eron Hodges

GENERAL MANAGER – HYATT REGENCY WAIKIKI

With over 33 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Eron has dedicated
25 years to Hyatt Hotels Corporation, distinguishing himself with multiple
Manager of the Year awards and a Leadership Award nomination. His career
highlights include his role in the award-winning Rooms Division Team at the
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa in 2014, and pivotal roles in major
projects such as the expansion of the Manchester Grand Hyatt and operational
enhancements across several Hyatt properties. Eron’s innovative contributions
were recognized with the “Edison Award” in 2022 for his creation of a
groundbreaking Diversity Expo that linked over 70 Black Owned businesses with 35
Bay Area Hyatt hotels.

Currently, Eron contributes to multiple boards in Waikiki, enhancing both
community and business environments. His personal interests include hiking,
surfing, and spending quality time with family and friends, reflecting his
passion for both nature and community.

CLOSE
Mark DeMello

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT – AQUA ASTON HOTELS

Mark Demello was born and raised on Oahu, where he attended ‘Iolani School and
then attended Northwestern University in Illinois. He was the Lead Singer for
the Kasuals, a showband that performed throughout the Pacific and across the
mainland United States. Mark became interested in the hospitality business
through his travels, and started a career that included Hyatt Hotels, the
Halekulani Corporation, a private developer, and Aqua Aston Hospitality. Mark
currently serves as RVP, Operations for Aqua Aston. He enjoys openings,
renovations, and improvement projects, as they improve guest experiences for
Visitors to a destination. Mark enjoys spending time with his two adult
children, as well as an active lifestyle.

CLOSE
Michael Cox

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS – ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER

Michael Cox has more than 24 years of commercial real estate management
experience. Since 2017, he has been the Director of Operations for the Royal
Hawaiian Center and oversees all daily operations. He joined the Festival
Management Team in 2014 as the General Manager for Salt at Kaka’ako.

Prior to joining The Festival Management Team, he spent 9 years as a Senior
Property Manager for CB Richard Ellis, a global, real estate services and
investment company and worked closely with various developers and landowners
overseeing approximately 1.4 million square feet, valued in excess of $90
million dollars.

He began his career in Commercial real estate as an Asset Analyst for GE Capital
Hawaii underwriting and restructuring the portfolio. He was then promoted to
Asset Manager (Assistant Vice President) and responsible for a $60 million
dollar portfolio that consisted of an array of approximately 63 assets in Hawaii
and Alaska.

He obtained his Bachelor of Business from the University of Hawaii in 1992 and
his Master of Business from the University of Phoenix in 2002.

Throughout his career, he has worked with JP Morgan, Kamehameha Schools, The
Shidler Group, A&B Properties, The Sullivan Family of Companies, The McNaughton
Group, MW Group, The Mills Group, Stanford Carr Development, REDICO, Del Mar
Pacific and American Property Management Corporation.

CLOSE
Dylan Ching

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS FOR HAWAII – TS RESTAURANTS

Mr. Ching is the Vice President of Operations for Hawaii. He oversees
restaurant operations of eight restaurants on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, and
Maui which include world famous brands like Dukes and Hula Grill. He is from
the Island of Maui and a graduate of Kamehameha Schools at Kapalama and holds a
bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Sandiego. His work
experience started off playing professional football in Canada for the
Saskatchewan Roughriders for three seasons. He grew up in the restaurant
business and has worked at TS on and off since 1994. He started off as a bus
boy at Leilani’s on the beach in Maui and has worked his way up from there. He
spent 6 years as the General Manager at Dukes Waikiki and two years as the
Regional Director of Operations for his region before being promoted to VP of
Operations in 2019. As of September 2022, he has been promoted to VP of
Operations for the state of Hawaii. He currently sits on the Waikiki Community
Center, WBIDA (Waikiki Business Improvement District Association), WBSIDA
(Waikiki Beach Special Improvement District Association), Boys and Girls Club of
Hawaii Corporate Board, BMAC (Bishop Museum Advisory Council), Treasure for Let
Grace In nonprofit, and the President of the Tommy Holmes Foundation. He is
also a proud alumnus of the Pacific Century Fellows class of 2018.

CLOSE
Debi Bishop

MANAGING DIRECTOR – HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE

Debi Bishop is a distinguished leader in the hospitality industry, overseeing
two key Hilton properties in Hawaii, including the world’s largest Hilton hotel,
the 2,860-room Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, and the 317-room
DoubleTree by Hilton Alana – Waikiki Beach. With over three decades of
experience, Bishop has significantly enhanced operational outcomes and
established a culture of engagement and support among her team of over 2,000
members. Her exemplary leadership earned her the “Outstanding General Manager of
the Year (Large Property)” award in 2020 from the American Hotel & Lodging
Association and the “General Manager of the Year” in 2019 by Park Hotels and
Resorts.

Before her current role, Bishop managed Hilton Waikoloa Village and held senior
positions at Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa and Interstate Hotels &
Resorts. Her extensive background also includes a role as Vice President of
Operations at Meristar Hotels and Resorts, where she was responsible for the
strategic oversight of 23 hotels across various major brands. Bishop is actively
involved in revitalizing Hawaii’s tourism sector, serving on the boards of the
Hawaii Hotel Alliance, Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association, and other local
business improvement associations.

CLOSE
Gene Albano

DIRECTOR AND CHIEF ENGINEER – DEPARTMENT OF FACILITY MAINTENANCE – CITY AND
COUNTY OF HONOLULU

In July of 2023, Gene Albano was confirmed by the City and County of Honolulu
Council as the appointed Director and Chief Engineer of the Department of
Facility Maintenance. His primary duties are to oversee 850 strong staff
responsible for the maintenance of City-owned streets, sidewalks, streams,
building structures and systems, electrical systems and street lights,
automotive vehicle fleet; in addition to the State and Federal compliance for
Storm water quality. He is also an ex-officio board member of the Board of
Water Supply.

Prior to joining the City, he started his career with a local electrical
engineering consulting firm for 15 years then moved on to a global engineering
firm where he was President of the legacy Australian-based company, named as a
Honolulu Magazine Best Place to Work 2013, then later Senior Vice President and
Business Line Leader of the Honolulu office for 17 years. His primary duties
included managing a multi-discipline engineering staff of over 30 strong in the
Honolulu and Manila offices; being a corporate liaison for the Asia Pacific and
USA regions; and leading major technical projects through the USA, Japan, Korea,
the Philippines, China, Singapore, and various Pacific islands. His credentials
include being a licensed professional engineer in the States of Hawaii and
California, the territory of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas
Island; a LEED Accredited Professional and an ICC Certified Plans Reviewer.

CLOSE
Laurie Akau

CBRE GENERAL MANAGER OF LUXURY ROW

Laurie Akau is CBRE General Manager of Luxury Row at 2100 Kalakaua Avenue. She
was previously employed as Manager, Property Management for A&B Properties,
Inc. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Waikīkī Improvement
Association.

Ms. Akau co-founded ThinkTechHawaii, a high tech website and radio show. She is
a former licensed Dale Carnegie Training Instructor. She has served on the
Board of Directors for BOMA-Building Owners And Managers Association and The
Life Foundation, an AIDS education organization.

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Patricia Tam

CHIEF EXECUTIVE ADVISOR – HALEKULANI CORPORATION

Patricia Tam, Chief Executive Advisor for Halekulani Corporation, is a highly
recognized and seasoned luxury hotel professional, with a hospitality career
spanning over four decades. Born and raised on Oahu, Hawaii, Ms. Tam has been
with Halekulani since its re-opening under the ownership of Mitsui Fudosan of
Japan, and rose to prominence in the Hawaii hotel industry with her appointment
in 1987 to the position of General Manager of Waikiki Parc Hotel, followed by
her promotion to General Manager of Halekulani.

Ms. Tam has been the recipient of numerous industry and business awards over the
years, including “Hotelier of the World” by HOTELS magazine, 100 Top Travel
Professionals in the U.S. , and the University of Hawaii TIM Legacy in Tourism
award.

She is currently responsible for the company’s brand oversight, as well as
Halekulani Corporation’s extensive community contributions, with a focus on the
areas of arts and culture and education. She has previously served on the boards
of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Aloha United Way, Hawaii Employers’ Council, as
well as chaired the Hawaii Hotel Association (now HLTA); she currently serves on
the board of Waikiki Business Improvement District Association, and Waikiki
Improvement Association.

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Bruce Nakaoka

VICE PRESIDENT AND TRUSTEE – QUEEN EMMA LAND COMPANY

As Vice President and Trustee of the Queen Emma Land Company, Bruce is
responsible for directing initiatives to strengthen and grow QEL’s legacy real
estate portfolio which supports the mission of The Queen’s Health System. After
beginning his career in commercial property appraisal, he managed the real
estate investment portfolio of the Kamehameha Schools/Bishop Estate and
co-founded MN Capital Partners which merged into Tradewind Capital Group.

Bruce serves on a numerous non-profit boards including the Waikiki Improvement
Association, Waikiki Business Improvement District, Waikiki Beach Special
Improvement District, Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, and McKinley High School
Foundation. He is also keenly involved with the Ke Alii Pauahi Foundation as an
administrator of the Matsuo Takabuki, Goldman Sachs and William Richardson
Commemorative Scholarship Funds established to assist Native Hawaiian
post-graduate students in business and law.

Bruce earned his BBA and MBA degrees from the Shidler College of Business at the
University of Hawaii at Manoa and MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute.
He is also a member of the Lambda Alpha International land economics society.
His most important credential is his wife Vanina and two children, Nicolas and
Noëlle.

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Michael Shaff

VICE PRESIDENT, HOTEL OPERATIONS – OUTRIGGER HOTELS & RESORTS

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Jason Ito

VICE PRESIDENT – KYO-YA HOTELS & RESORTS

Jason Ito joined the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in 1987 working through various
operational departments and leading improvement projects until his appointment
as General Manager, Support Services, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Waikiki in
2003. In 2009, Jason joined Kyo-ya and currently serves as its vice president.
His responsibilities are aligned with Kyo-ya’s core values of taking care of its
employees, doing what is right for the community, and maintaining the long term
legacy and stewardship of the Osano family’s assets.

Jason’s service to the community extends to Aloha United Way, Waikiki Business
Improvement District, KAMP Hawaii, Hawaii Bowl, Hawai`i Green Growth, Hawaii
Lodging & Tourism Association, and the Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce.

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Paul Shoji

VICE PRESIDENT AND BANKING CENTER MANAGER – BANK OF HAWAII

Paul Shoji is Vice President and Banking Center Manager at the Bank of Hawai’i
Waikiki Banking Center. Paul was born and raised on the Island of O’ahu and
graduate from Punahou School and Willamette University. Paul has been in the
financial services industry for nearly a decade and has vast experience working
with business owners, mass affluent markets and private banking clients as well.
Paul’s goal has always been to do right by the customer and provide the best
experiences possible for his clients and his employees. In his free time, Paul
enjoys hitting the links and also keeping up with the latest and greatest
happenings in the NBA.

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Paul Kosasa

PRESIDENT AND CEO OF ABC STORES

PAUL KOSASA is an American businessman and philanthropist. He is the President
and CEO of ABC Stores, a chain of resort convenience stores throughout Hawaii,
Las Vegas, and Guam. ABC Stores was founded by Paul’s parents, Sidney and Minnie
Kosasa in 1964.

Paul is a graduate of the University of Michigan, B.S. Electrical Engineering.
In 1980, Paul moved back to Hawaii to work for the family company ABC Stores. He
worked in various divisions: warehouse, store operations, purchasing,
merchandising, and administration. In 1999, Paul was appointed President and
CEO.

Paul is President of the Kosasa Foundation, a private charitable organization.
He also sits on the Board of Directors of Central Pacific Financial Corporation,
as well as various non-profit organizations.

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