Andy Sugg, the new Chief of Staff to Mayor Rick Blangiardi.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi announces new Chief of Staff

News Release from City and County of Honolulu, Feb 9, 2024

HONOLULU – Mayor Rick Blangiardi is pleased to announce the appointment of Andy Sugg as the new Chief of Staff for the City and County of Honolulu. With an extensive background in local media, Sugg brings a wealth of experience to his new role and will help the administration operate with an increased sense of urgency to deliver on behalf of the people of Honolulu.

Sugg previously served as a television executive in Hawai‘i and has years of experience in working alongside Mayor Blangiardi. Their long-standing professional partnership will allow them to immediately focus on strategic initiatives that benefit our communities.

Originally hailing from Buffalo, New York, Sugg’s decision to return to Honolulu underscores his commitment to serving the people of Oʻahu and contributing to the continued progress and well-being of the city. During his previous stint in Hawai‘i, Sugg gained valuable insights into the unique needs and aspirations of our communities, and his understanding of the local culture — combined with his professional expertise — positions him as an invaluable asset to Mayor Blangiardi’s team.

“As a trusted former colleague, I can say without any reservation that Andy’s extensive experience and profound understanding of our communities are invaluable,” said Mayor Blangiardi. “His reputation as a leader and problem solver precedes him, and I have full confidence in his ability to tackle our complex challenges. Andy’s strategic thinking and proactive approach will undoubtedly enhance our team’s success as we collaboratively seek innovative solutions to benefit the community.” 

As Chief of Staff, he will play a pivotal role in advancing the Mayor’s vision for the city and ensuring effective governance. His background in media and his familiarity with the intricacies of city affairs make him well-suited to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

"I am deeply humbled to be joining the administration of Mayor Blangiardi to continue the considerable progress he and all the hard-working people at the City and County of Honolulu have made to improve the lives of the residents of O‘ahu,” added Andy Sugg. “There is much more work to be done and, under the Mayor’s unrivaled leadership, I am confident that we will build on the successes of the first three years of his tenure, making positive change across the island."

Sugg is a St. Lawrence University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in English. He is an eight-time Associated Press Award winner, five-time Murrow Award winner and four-time Emmy Award winner. He has also served on the board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in Hawai’i and New England. 

Sugg will start with the City on February 8, 2024.     

—PAU—