Caldwell selects new Enterprise Services chief

Guy Kaulukukui was nominated by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell Thursday to head the city Department of Enterprise Services. 

Kaulukukui will lead the agency in charge of the city’s money-making operations including Blaisdell Center, the Honolulu Zoo and municipal golf courses and their related concessions.

He replaces Gerald Saito, who resigned late last year. Tracy Kubota, acting director in Saito’s absence, will return to her post as the agency’s deputy director.

Kaulukukui is the founder of Kealapono LLC, which advises government and community organizations on cultural matters. 

He is also no stranger around government circles. He was a deputy director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources under the Abercrombie administration and is a one-time Honolulu City Council aide. He also served as vice president for cultural services at Bishop Museum and was associate director of the Kohala Center.

"With his background in business, natural resources, and Native Hawaiian culture and history, Guy Kaulukukui will bring a unique perspective to our facilities, both current and in future planning," Caldwell said, in a release. "We are working on some exciting projects, such as the Blaisdell Center master plan, Honolulu Zoo re-accreditation, and Kuhio Beach Waikiki Pavilion vendors and displays. Guy is well qualified to lead the department at this critical juncture, and he will be a strong addition to the administration."

Kaulukukui earned a bachelor of arts degree in economics from the University of Hawaii, a masters of business administration from Hawaii Pacific University and a Ph.D in economics education from the University of Kansas.

The nomination is subject to confirmation by the Honolulu City Council.