Careers

Employment Opportunities

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business needs.

President & Chief Executive Officer

Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Up to $300,000 annually commensurate with experience.
Division/Agency:	Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA)
Location:	O‘ahu
Note:	Relocation costs will not be paid.

*** DEADLINE EXTENDED: ALL INTERESTED APPLICANTS MUST APPLY BY 4:59 P.M. HST ON OCTOBER 28, 2024 ***

Bishop & Company, a Honolulu-based executive search and staffing firm, has been asked to perform the search to fill the President and Chief Executive Officer position for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority.  

PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Are you a results-oriented leader with strong administrative and leadership skills, and a passion for sustainable tourism and economic development? The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) is seeking an exceptional individual to lead our organization as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This pivotal role, based on the beautiful island of O‘ahu, offers an opportunity to shape the future of Hawai‘i's tourism industry and drive impactful change.

About the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority:

The HTA, established by Act 156 in 1998, is the State of Hawai‘i’s primary agency dedicated to managing, marketing, and supporting the tourism industry. Our mission is to foster a sustainable tourism economy that honors Hawai‘i’s people and heritage, values its natural resources, and provides a memorable experience for visitors while supporting a vital economy. In addition to guiding tourism policies and coordinating with various agencies, HTA also manages the Hawai‘i Convention Center.

Role Overview:

The President and CEO is responsible for implementing the policies and instructions of HTA’s Board of Directors and administering the activities of HTA staff by planning, organizing, directing, monitoring and inspecting, coordinating, and reporting on their work.

As the President and CEO, you will be at the forefront of implementing HTA’s strategic vision and policies ensuring that tourism strategies align with the state’s vision and objectives. This role involves overseeing HTA’s operations, managing staff, and representing the organization in interactions with government officials, industry stakeholders, and the public.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement short- and long-range tourism policies, manage and support HTA’s strategic initiatives, and provide comprehensive updates and recommendations to the Board of Directors.
• Administrative Oversight: Direct HTA’s daily operations, including contract negotiations, procurement processes, and program evaluations. Ensure effective resource management and oversee the development of internal policies and budgets.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Foster strong relationships with public and private sector organizations, engage in public relations activities, and address community and industry concerns.
• Personnel Management: Lead and develop HTA’s team, including hiring, training, and performance management. Ensure a positive and productive work environment.

Qualifications:

• Education: An undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year institution or equivalent executive-level experience.
• Experience: 15+ years in senior management roles with substantial experience in fiscal and personnel management and statistical marketing strategies. Government administrative experience is preferred.
• Knowledge: Expertise in the hospitality and travel industry, particularly in Asia/Pacific markets, and a deep understanding of Hawai‘i’s economic structure.
• Skills: Strong written and oral communication skills, ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, and proficiency in managing complex organizational functions.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Hawai‘i Driver’s License or ability to obtain
• Proven track record of leadership and strategic vision in similar roles

Compensation:

Up to $300,000 annually commensurate with experience.

*** OUT OF STATE CANDIDATES ***

Strong ties to Hawai‘i are highly preferred. Please outline your professional and/or personal ties to Hawaii in your application/resume/cover letter and/or communication. Required. ***

Applicants are reminded that applications for candidacy are confidential. A breach of this agreement can lead to disqualification.

*** Application Deadline is 4:59 pm HST on October 28, 2024 ***

All resumes must be sent to:
Bishop & Company
(or email [email protected])
Phone: 808-839-2200
Website: http://www.bishopco.net/

Equal Opportunity Employer – Disability and Veteran

Bishop & Company provides recruiting and placement services for client companies and job seekers for opportunities throughout Hawai‘i, with emphasis on executive search, direct hire, temp to hire, and temporary/contract staffing. We charge no fees to our placed candidates and our temporary/contract employees. Our client services are 100% guaranteed.

HTA Destination Managers

Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Salary Commensurate with Experience
Division/Agency:	Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA)
Location:	Oahu, Hawaii Island, Molokai
Note:	Relocation Costs will not be paid

Calling All Visionaries: Shape the Future of Hawaiʻi's Tourism

Imagine a Hawaiʻi where tourism doesn't just thrive, but actively contributes to the well-being of both our islands and its people. At the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA), we're turning that vision into reality, and we need passionate individuals to join us on this transformative journey.

Your Role:

As an HTA Destination Manager, you'll be at the forefront of implementing our regenerative tourism model. This isn't just a job—it's an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future of your island home. You'll work hand-in-hand with communities, businesses, and government agencies to identify and tackle the challenges facing areas frequented by both visitors and residents. You'll champion sustainable solutions that protect our natural resources, celebrate our rich Hawaiian culture, and elevate the experience for everyone who sets foot on our shores.

Your Impact:

• Community Collaboration: Forge meaningful partnerships with local stakeholders to co-create and implement projects that enhance the quality of life for residents while ensuring a positive visitor experience.
• Program Implementation: Oversee a portfolio of initiatives spanning tourism product development, economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.
• Strategic Oversight: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of HTA's programs, ensuring they align with our long-term vision and deliver tangible results.
• Bridge Building: Foster understanding and cooperation between diverse communities, industries, and government entities.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Analyze market trends, community sentiment, and visitor feedback to inform strategic planning and policy recommendations.

Your Island, Your Expertise:

We're seeking five HTA Destination Managers, each dedicated to one of our beloved islands: Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, and Molokaʻi. Your greatest assets will be your deep connection to your island home and your passion for its future.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent work experience.
• Five years of experience in tourism, economic development, marketing, communications, or a related field.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and navigate complex situations tactfully and diplomatically.
• A demonstrated commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and cultural preservation.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and a passion for making a difference.

Join the Movement:

We want to hear from you if you're ready to contribute your skills and passion to building a brighter future for Hawaiʻi's tourism industry. Please send your cover letter and resume to [email protected] and tell us why you're the ideal candidate to champion regenerative tourism on your island.

Let's shape a legacy of regenerative tourism together.

Note: This position requires a valid Hawaiʻi Driver's License. No phone calls, please.

Please indicate the Island position you are applying for.  Oahu, Hawaii Island, Molokai.

HTA Contracts and Administrative Manager

Position No.:	124325
Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Salary Commensurate with Experience
Division/Agency:	Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)
Location:	Honolulu, Hawaii
Note:	Relocation costs will not be paid

The HTA Contracts & Administrative Manager provides primary executive support for the HTA Chief Administrative Officer.  

Responsibilities:

• Project management for the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), including work related to project management, contract management, program evaluation, procurement, budgeting, organizational policies and procedures, training, and other related duties in support for the organization.
• Provides executive support for the HTA Chief Administrative Officer, which includes, but is not limited to, scheduling meetings, making travel arrangements, and any other administrative duties assigned.
• Assists in the management of Information Technology services for the office, such as addressing various computer-related issues and the procurement of appropriate computer hardware, software, and peripherals. Assists in the coordination of the necessary activities to ensure acceptability, reliability, and security of the office computer system.  Participates and assists in the development and implementation of computer-related policies and procedures.
• Assists the HTA Chief Administrative Officer in crisis management including managing equipment for the HTA Department Operations Center (DOC), ensuring the operations of the DOC, and any other duties assigned by the HTA Administrative Officer in an event of crisis.

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge of project management, contract management, change management, business process mapping and improvement methodologies, procurement laws, policies, and procedures for the State of Hawai‘i and must be conversant with technology.

Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to read, comprehend, and apply written and oral directions; ability to communicate effectively with others orally and in writing; maintain effective working relationships with others; and the ability to maintain a multi-task oriented workload.

Education:

• Graduation from a four (4)-year accredited college or university, with a bachelor’s degree in the areas of business or law. Excess work experience as described below under “Experience” or any other progressively responsible administrative, professional, and other analytical work experience which provided knowledge, skills, and abilities comparable to those acquired in four (4) years of successful study while completing a college or university curriculum leading to a baccalaureate degree with the course work previously cited may be substituted for the required education on a year-to-year basis.

Experience:

• Three (3) years of specialized experience in business process improvement, change management, procurement and/or contracts management. Knowledge and experience working with State of Hawaii policies and processes, such as those relating to budget and fiscal, human resources, procurement and contract development.

Cover Letter and Resume Accepted by Email to: [email protected]

No phone calls.

 

HTA Brand Manager (Sports Tourism)

Position No.:	124320
Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Salary Commensurate with Experience
Division/Agency:	Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) | Destination Stewardship
Location:	Honolulu, Hawaii
Note:	Relocation costs will not be paid.

Summary:

The Brand Manager for Sports Tourism plays a vital role in promoting Hawaiʻi as a premier sports tourism destination. This position is responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies that attract sporting events, athletes, and spectators to the Hawaiian Islands while ensuring alignment with the HTA's overall tourism goals and destination stewardship principles.

Key Responsibilities:

Market Research & Analysis:

• Conduct thorough research on sports tourism trends, competitor destinations, and target audience preferences to identify opportunities and inform marketing strategies.
• Analyze the economic impact and potential benefits of different sports tourism segments for Hawaiʻi
• Stay informed about upcoming sporting events, athlete endorsements, and industry partnerships relevant to Hawaiʻi's tourism market.

Marketing Strategy & Planning:

• Develop comprehensive marketing plans and campaigns targeting attracting sports tourists to Hawaiʻi.
• Identify and prioritize key sports tourism segments (e.g., endurance sports, water sports, team competitions) based on market potential and alignment with Hawaiʻi's offerings.
• Create compelling marketing content that highlights Hawaiʻi's unique sporting venues, natural assets, cultural experiences, and event-hosting capabilities.

Content Creation & Promotion:

• Develop engaging and informative content across various platforms (website, social media, brochures, videos) showcasing Hawaiʻi's appeal to sports tourists.
• Collaborate with content creators, influencers, and media partners to promote Hawaiʻi's sports tourism offerings to a wider audience.
• Leverage digital marketing tools and strategies to reach target audiences and maximize campaign effectiveness.

Event Attraction & Support:

• Actively pursue and support the bidding process for major sporting events in Hawaiʻi.
• Collaborate with event organizers, local sports commissions, and industry stakeholders to ensure successful event execution and positive visitor experiences.
• Promote existing sports events in Hawaii and leverage them to attract more sports tourists.

Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in the sports tourism industry, including sports organizations, event organizers, travel agencies, and media outlets.
• Collaborate with local communities and businesses to ensure that sports tourism activities are aligned with destination stewardship principles and contribute to the well-being of residents.
• Represent the HTA at industry events, conferences, and trade shows to promote Hawaiʻi as a leading sports tourism destination.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Travel Industry Management, Sports Management, Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in sports marketing, tourism marketing, or event management.
• Strong understanding of the sports tourism industry, including trends, challenges, and opportunities.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to develop and execute effective marketing campaigns.
• Passion for sports and a deep appreciation for Hawaiʻi's unique cultural and natural environment.

Bonus:

• Experience working with sports commissions or tourism boards.
• Knowledge of Hawaiian culture and language.
• Existing relationships with key stakeholders in the sports tourism industry.

 CLOSING DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2024

 Cover Letter and Resume Accepted by Email to [email protected]

No phone calls.