OHA Is Looking For A New CEO Amid Legal Battle

CB: … The Office of Hawaiian Affairs could have a new chief executive by the end of October. The office’s Board of Trustees approved the kickoff of a national search process on Thursday.

The recruitment comes amid a lawsuit from agency CEO Stacy Ferreira, who alleges that the trustees retaliated against her when they put her on paid leave last year. Ferreira’s contract was set to expire in October and has no automatic option to extend the contract.

The trustees voted 5-4 along factional lines to approve the search for a new CEO. The four trustees who voted against the process have aligned with Ferreira in the lawsuit.

OHA has hired Kumabe HR to handle the executive search, for which the board approved a $70,000 budget. Kumabe handled the search in 2023 that resulted in Ferreira’s hiring.

The recruiting period is expected to take five weeks, after which Kumabe will narrow the applicants down to the five most qualified candidates, according to the firm’s owner, Marie Kumabe ….

Summer Sylva has been the office’s interim CEO since last September. Some of the board members suggested she could stay in that role while the board deals with the ongoing lawsuit. But Board Chair Kai Kahele said he wants certainty in the CEO position.

“I have to prepare for that day I get the phone call and she says, ‘I’m getting a job somewhere else,’” Kahele said….

The search process lands in the middle of election season for five of the current OHA trustees. Three of the majority trustees who had sided with Kahele – Brickwood ‘Buzzy’ Galuteria, John Waiheʻe and Souza (campaign managed by Miske lawyer) – are in crowded primary races for six spots that advance to the general election.

Two trustees in the dissenting faction – Lindsey and Kalei Akaka – automatically advance to the general election but will face competitive races then….

Read … OHA Is Looking For A New CEO Amid Legal Battle - Honolulu Civil Beat

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OHA Launches National Search for Chief Executive Officer

News Release from OHA, July 31, 2026

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) Board of Trustees has officially launched a nationwide search for the agency's next Administrator/Chief Executive Officer, inviting accomplished leaders with a commitment to public service, stewardship, and Native Hawaiian advancement to apply for one of Hawaiʻi's most significant executive leadership positions. The position serves as OHA's chief executive and administrative officer, reporting directly to the Board of Trustees and providing strategic, operational, and organizational leadership.

"The Office of Hawaiian Affairs stands at an important moment in its history, and we are seeking a leader who shares our commitment to advancing the well-being of Native Hawaiians through visionary leadership, sound stewardship, and meaningful partnerships," said OHA Board Chair Kaialiʻi Kahele. "We are looking for an executive who understands that this role is about far more than managing an organization. It is about serving our beneficiaries, honoring our trust responsibilities, and helping shape a stronger future for generations to come."

The Board has partnered with Kumabe HR to conduct the executive search. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by September 4, 2026, with the position remaining open until filled. Candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter and résumé through Kumabe HR.

The next CEO will lead one of Hawaiʻi's largest public trust organizations, overseeing OHA's programs, investments, advocacy efforts, and trust assets while working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, beneficiaries, community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders. The successful candidate will guide the implementation of OHA's long-range strategic plan, Mana i Mauli Ola, and help advance priorities in education, housing, health, economic stability, and cultural stewardship.

The Board is seeking a mission-driven executive with extensive senior leadership experience, demonstrated organizational and financial management expertise, and a deep understanding of Native Hawaiian history, culture, values, and contemporary issues. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional communication skills, experience working with governing boards, and a proven ability to build trust while leading complex organizations through change.

"Our vision is to identify a leader who can build upon OHA's recent momentum while inspiring excellence throughout the organization," Kahele added. "We welcome candidates who are motivated by purpose, grounded in integrity, and ready to help strengthen opportunities for Native Hawaiians across our pae ʻāina."

Interested applicants may view the position qualifications and application instructions at www.kumabehr.com. Applications, nominations, and inquiries should be directed to Kimberly Miyashiro at Kumabe HR.

View OHA's Administrator & Chief Executve Officer Leadership Profile