JOANN INAMASU – Becomes OED director

The Maui News

JoAnn Inamasu, who works in the county Office of Economic Development and has been a former deputy director, has been pegged to lead the office beginning June 16.

She replaces Kay Fukumoto, who said she is stepping down to focus on family issues.

Inamasu has had two stints in the Office of Economic Development, her current one and in the administration of Mayor Charmaine Tavares, beginning in August 1997. Back then, she handled grants management and agricultural promotion and was deputy director of the office.

Her previous experience includes five years as public relations for Goodfellow Bros. and 3 1/2 years as Maui liaison for former Gov. Neil Abercrombie.

“I have big shoes to fill with Kay’s departure, but I know we have a solid team in the Office of Economic Development that’s committed to Mayor Victorino’s vision of economic diversification and a stronger, more resilient economy for Maui County,” she said in the announcement Thursday.

“Ms. Inamasu comes with a wealth of experience in the Office of Economic Development, and I’m excited to have her join our team to help rebuild our economy in this challenging time of COVID-19 impacts,” Victorino said in making the appointment. “I want to thank Kay Fukumoto for her public service and wish her all the best as she cares for her family at this time.”

Fukumoto said she needed “to focus on family commitments.”

“It has been a privilege to work with such a dedicated staff in the Office of Economic Development,” she said. “I’m confident that JoAnn Inamasu’s proven leadership and extensive experience with OED will advance Mayor Victorino’s vision for economic diversification and development.”

The Office of Economic Development works in partnership with the community, business and government sectors to strengthen and diversify the economy by supporting existing businesses and assisting in the attraction, development and expansion of new businesses and events that will provide new jobs, the office website said.