Longtime businessman George Szigeti officially was selected Tuesday as the new president and chief executive officer of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority.
The Star-Advertiser reported May 6 that Szigeti would be the choice.
Szigeti, who has been president and CEO of the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association since 2012, was selected by HTA’s board from a pool of about 23 candidates worldwide. The HTA said it is still working out details of his contract, and it has not been determined when he will start the position.
Former HTA board chairman Ron Williams has been interim CEO since former HTA President and CEO Mike McCartney left his post in November to serve as Gov. David Ige’s chief of staff. McCartney’s last contract specified a base of $270,000.
Williams’ term expires June 30 but could be extended depending on when Szigeti takes over.
"Following a thorough and extensive search by the HTA’s CEO Investigative Search Committee, we are pleased that George has accepted the challenge to serve as the next president and CEO of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority," said Aaron Sala, HTA board chairman, in a news release. "George’s experience in and understanding of the visitor industry, and his extensive business background, all make for an ideal candidate to lead the HTA and ensure a sustainable future for our visitor industry moving forward."
Before overseeing the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association, Szigeti served as president and CEO of Better Brands Ltd., a wholesaler and distributor of beer, wine and spirits, from 1997 to 2012. He is actively involved in the community, where he serves on the committees for the Hawai‘i Bowl and Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic. He also previously served as a board member of the Hawaii Foodbank, Hawaii Food Industry Association, Hawaii Restaurant Association, Hale ‘Aina ‘Ohana Culinary Association and as past president of the Hawaii Liquor Wholesalers Association.
"I look forward to working collaboratively with (the HTA board), the HTA staff, international marketing contractors, visitor industry, lawmakers and stakeholders as we continue positioning Hawaii for future growth, while honoring Hawaiian culture and perpetuating its legacy, traditions and values, especially for our younger generations of visitors and kamaaina," Szigeti said in a statement.
CORRECTION
A earlier version of this story didn’t correctly specify his current and past affiliations because of misinformation provided by HTA. |
