Former Hoku Corp. CEO Scott Paul has taken over the top job at Kleenco Corp., a Honolulu-based commercial cleaning and janatorial company.

Paul left Hoku in June 2012 as the local solar energy company struggled with a money-losing investment in a polysilicon plant in Idaho.

Paul acquired a controlling interest in Kleenco and began serving as its chief executive officer on Jan. 7, according to a news release from the company. Paul took over from Kleenco Corp. owner and president Dan Perry, who will stay on with the company during a transition period.

Founded in Honolulu in 1972, Kleenco Corp. specializes in commercial, industrial and institutional cleaning for public and private organizations across the state.

Paul served in various executive roles at Hoku Corp. from 2003 until his departure in 2012. Paul had served as CEO from 2010.