Former Honolulu City Mayor Mufi Hannemann, who loudly championed the state’s visitor industry during his political career, was named president of the Hawaii Hotel & Lodging Association today.

Hannemann, who will take over as head of the statewide membership organization on Jan. 1, replaces Murray Towill who retired from the post in August.

“I am excited and honored to accept this responsibility and the opportunity to support Hawaii’s lodging industry and all that it represents to the well-being of residents and businesses statewide,” said Hannemann, who resigned as mayor in July to make an unsuccessful bid for Hawaii governor.

“We are confident that Mufi’s experience and credentials make him the ideal candidate to be an effective advocate for Hawaii’s lodging industry on government-related issues and to help foster a positive relationship with the community,” said Chris Tatum, HHLA chairman and area vice president of Marriott International.

HHLA has a statewide membership of 170 hotels, condominiums, timeshares and other lodging entities representing more than 48,000 guest rooms, and also has an allied membership of more than 280 companies.