Careers

Employment Opportunities

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business needs.

HTA Brand Manager (Destination Stewardship)

Position No.:	124324
Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Salary Commensurate with Experience
Division/Agency:	Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)
Location:	Honolulu, Hawaii
Note:	Relocation costs will not be paid

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent of this position has the responsibility of overseeing initiatives and programs for assigned projects and programs related to destination management; planning and organizing tourism-related market research; and preparing current and long-range plans on matters concerning the development of a regenerative tourism model for the State of Hawai‘i.  As directed by the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority Strategic Plan: 2020-2025, initiatives and programs benefiting Hawai‘i ‘s tourism.

The HTA Brand Manager: 

• Assists in working with communities, nonprofits, government agencies, and other stakeholders to: (a) identify impacted natural resources; (b) develop and track sustainable efforts to preserve such areas; and (c) maintain or increase funding for improving and managing tourism-impacted natural and cultural sites.
• Assists with implementation of programs including those related to Hawaiian culture, natural resources, community, and branding.
• Interfaces with the HTA’s marketing partners to ensure that: (a) they are thoroughly briefed on HTA’s current and long-range plans on matters concerning the development of a regenerative tourism model for the State of Hawaii; (b) HTA’s marketing partners are encouraged and supported in their efforts to meet the requirements of HTA’s plans; (c) Hawaii receives optimum representation in the market. 

• Actively monitors the effectiveness of the marketing initiatives that are initiated by the HTA’s marketing partners’ strategies, with an understanding of current market trends as they relate to HTA’s stakeholders (Hawaiian and multicultural communities, industry, government agencies and visitors). 

• Responsible for the management and oversight of assigned contracts which include, but is not limited to, tracking, monitoring, and reporting on deliverables and other related contractual obligations. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

Knowledge: 

• General knowledge and understanding of the Hawaiian culture, natural resources, community programs, and branding. 

• Experience with project management; communication principles; principles and practices of writing business and strategic plans, proposals and project/program evaluations; and knowledge and application of culturally sensitive issues as they relate to the tourism industry and Hawai‘i. 

• General knowledge and understanding of the Hawaiian language, Hawaiian history, and the Hawaiian communities; Hawaii’s multicultural communities; social, economic, and cultural aspects of Hawaii’s visitor industry; project management; and communication principles. 

• General knowledge and understanding of travel industry management, business administration, research, planning, and statistical analysis work. 

• Work experience should demonstrate experience in research, writing, and legislative matters.
• Must be knowledgeable and competent in the utilization of technology, social media, and other emerging communication platforms as it relates to the dissemination of information and research findings. 

Skills/Abilities: 

• Demonstrated ability to gather various facts, recognize and analyze issues and problems, and recommend solutions to complex and sensitive problems or situations. 

• Ability to analyze, organize and draft comprehensive marketing plans, programs, and recommendations. Ability to review, analyze, evaluate, and critique tourism marketing plans and public relations campaigns, including the ability to make recommendations for the effective implementation of such plans and campaigns. Ability to interpret and analyze contract terms and provisions. 

• Possesses effective and satisfactory oral and written communication skills. Able to conduct presentations before individuals and private and public groups. 

• Ability to maintain a multi-task-oriented workload and deal tactfully with stakeholders and others. 

• Ability to deal tactfully with employees and others. Must possess the ability to deal satisfactorily with workers and operating personnel and to recognize operational problems within the staff organizational structure. 

Education:

A bachelor’s degree from a four (4)-year accredited college or university with major study in travel industry management, business administration, marketing, communications, management, or a related field. Subject to review by the HTA Chief Stewardship Officer, Chief Administrative Officer and the HTA President and Chief Executive Officer, work experience may be used as a substitute for education.

Experience: 

Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in one (1) or any combination of professional work experience in travel industry management, event production and promotion, communications, management, advertising, or marketing. The HTA Chief Stewardship Officer, HTA Chief Administrative Officer and HTA President and Chief Executive Officer may allow any substitution for experience. 

Required Licenses, Certificates, etc.:

Valid and Current Hawai‘i Driver’s License 

CLOSING DATE: FRIDAY, December 27, 2024

Cover Letter and Resume Accepted by Email to: [email protected]

No phone calls. 

HTA Planner

Position No.:	124323
Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Salary Commensurate with Experience
Division/Agency:	Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) | Planning Office
Location:	Honolulu, Hawaii
Note:	Relocation costs will not be paid.

SUMMARY: 

The Planning Office is responsible for developing the HTA's short, mid, and long-range plans, including the Strategic Plan, Tourism Management Plan, Destination Management Action Plans, and Annual Report to the Legislature. It is also responsible for Program evaluation efforts, including coordinating and tracking key performance indicators. The office also researches tourism issues. 

This position leads, plans, and coordinates initiatives and programs related to tourism destination stewardship and regenerative tourism for assigned areas. This includes overseeing and organizing tourism-related market research and preparing current and long-range plans for developing a regenerative tourism model for the State of Hawai‘i. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Planning & Research
• Develop counties’ destination management action plans and strategies that align with the stakeholders’ goals, objectives, and values.
• Develop and maintain an understanding of the principles and practices within the tourism policy area for the overall destination management and specific focus areas, as assigned.
• Oversee data collection and analysis, prepare reports of findings and recommendations for discussion, and incorporate the information into the long-range tourism plan.
• Monitor research and planning studies. Guide areas needing further analysis and study. Work with the HTA Director of Planning on data analysis and interpretation of findings.
• Participate in coordinating and preparing reports of findings and recommendations and issue papers. Work with the HTA Director of Planning to present findings on major tourism issues and problems in the industry.
• Works directly with the public, communities, nonprofits, government agencies, and other stakeholders to identify destination management and product development needs.
• Facilitate opportunities around tourism planning, strategy, and capacity building to meet the needs of the visitor industry and enhance positive community impacts.
• Assess relevant stakeholder comments and concerns. Oversees the creation of venues to communicate with and obtain feedback from stakeholders, such as (a) interagency government meetings and (b) meetings relating to HTA’s plans.
   

• Program Evaluation
• Implement a system for collecting program data to track and quantify the effectiveness of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s programs and strategic plan.
• Monitor projects and ongoing activities to ensure adequacy and overall effectiveness.
• Support the evaluation of activity results to ascertain their costs and benefits and whether the HTA’s long-term goals and objectives are achieved.
• Support the development of tools to track and display the progress of HTA’s Strategic Plan and program outcomes. Work with staff to ensure the use of these tools.
  
  
• Contract Administration
  
• Manage, review, and evaluate the work of contractors providing services to the Planning Office.
• Monitor the budget expenditures of contractors.
• Develop competitive procurements through “Request for Proposals,” “Invitation for Bid,” and “Request for Qualifications” and supporting material and recommend a selection of contractors for implementation of tourism-related projects. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge
  
• General knowledge and understanding of travel industry management, sustainable tourism, and regenerative tourism principles and practices as they relate to the tourism industry and Hawai‘i
• General knowledge of Hawaii's multicultural communities, social, economic, and cultural aspects of Hawai‘i, and Hawai‘i’s visitor industry, especially culturally sensitive issues.
• General knowledge and understanding of research, planning, and statistical analysis work.
• General knowledge of business administration, business planning, and management principles; sources of information on economic and business subjects; economic trends; public relations; supportive governmental programs available to businesses.
• Experience with project management, communication principles, principles, and practices of writing business and strategic plans, proposals, and project/program evaluations.
• Must be conversant with the digital age and the use of new communication media to disseminate information and research findings.
  
  
• Skills/Abilities
  
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, community representatives, tourism businesses, and cultural practitioners.
• Ability to facilitate stakeholder discussions.
• Ability to apply theories and principles of planning, sustainable tourism, regenerative tourism, marketing, and program evaluation.
• Demonstrated ability to gather facts, recognize and analyze issues and problems, and identify and recommend solutions to complex and sensitive problems or situations. Develop effective plans for resolving problems in the area.
• Ability to analyze, organize, and draft comprehensive plans, programs, and recommendations. Ability to review, analyze, evaluate, and critique tourism plans, including making recommendations for their effective implementation. Ability to interpret and analyze contract terms and provisions.
• Possesses effective and persuasive oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas to various stakeholders.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage tasks simultaneously. 
  
  

• Education
  
• A bachelor's degree from a four (4)-year accredited college or university with a major in travel industry management, business administration, urban and regional planning, marketing, communications, management, or a related field.
• Subject to review and approval by the HTA Director of Planning, Chief Administrative Officer, the HTA President, and Chief Executive Officer, work experience may be used as a substitute for education. 
  
  

• Experience
  
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in one (1) or any combination of professional work experience in travel industry management, planning, project management, business planning, public policy, or research. Must have proven experience in project management.
• The HTA Director of Planning, Chief Administrative Officer, HTA President, and Chief Executive Officer may allow any substitution for experience.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Tourism Product Development: Working and/or applied knowledge in developing tourism products and economic development programs. 

• Stakeholder Collaboration: Working and applied knowledge and experience in working with inter-governmental agencies, visitor industry, and community organizations. 

CLOSING DATE:  December 2, 2024 

Cover Letter and Resume Accepted by Email to [email protected]

No phone calls. 

HTA Destination Manager (Oahu)

Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Salary Commensurate with Experience
Division/Agency:	Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA)
Location:	Oahu
Note:	Relocation Costs will not be paid

Calling All Visionaries: Shape the Future of Hawaiʻi's Tourism

Imagine a Hawaiʻi where tourism doesn't just thrive, but actively contributes to the well-being of both our islands and its people. At the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA), we're turning that vision into reality, and we need passionate individuals to join us on this transformative journey.

Your Role:

As an HTA Destination Manager, you'll be at the forefront of implementing our regenerative tourism model. This isn't just a job—it's an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future of your island home. You'll work hand-in-hand with communities, businesses, and government agencies to identify and tackle the challenges facing areas frequented by both visitors and residents. You'll champion sustainable solutions that protect our natural resources, celebrate our rich Hawaiian culture, and elevate the experience for everyone who sets foot on our shores.

Your Impact:

• Community Collaboration: Forge meaningful partnerships with local stakeholders to co-create and implement projects that enhance the quality of life for residents while ensuring a positive visitor experience.
• Program Implementation: Oversee a portfolio of initiatives spanning tourism product development, economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.
• Strategic Oversight: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of HTA's programs, ensuring they align with our long-term vision and deliver tangible results.
• Bridge Building: Foster understanding and cooperation between diverse communities, industries, and government entities.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Analyze market trends, community sentiment, and visitor feedback to inform strategic planning and policy recommendations.

Your Island, Your Expertise:

We're seeking an HTA Destination Manager, dedicated to your beloved island (Oahu). Your greatest asset will be your deep connection to your island home and your passion for its future.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent work experience.
• Five years of experience in tourism, economic development, marketing, communications, or a related field.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and navigate complex situations tactfully and diplomatically.
• A demonstrated commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and cultural preservation.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and a passion for making a difference.

Join the Movement:

We want to hear from you if you're ready to contribute your skills and passion to building a brighter future for Hawaiʻi's tourism industry. Please send your cover letter and resume to [email protected] and tell us why you're the ideal candidate to champion regenerative tourism on your island.

Let's shape a legacy of regenerative tourism together.

Note: This position requires a valid Hawaiʻi Driver's License. No phone calls, please.

HTA Destination Manager (Molokai)

Job Type:	Full-Time, Exempt, Non-Civil Service
Salary:	Salary Commensurate with Experience
Division/Agency:	Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)
Location:	Molokai, Hawaii
Note:	Relocation costs will not be paid

Calling All Visionaries: Shape the Future of Hawaiʻi's Tourism

Imagine a Hawaiʻi where tourism doesn't just thrive, but actively contributes to the well-being of both our islands and its people. At the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA), we're turning that vision into reality, and we need passionate individuals to join us on this transformative journey.

Your Role:

As an HTA Destination Manager, you'll be at the forefront of implementing our regenerative tourism model. This isn't just a job—it's an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future of your island home. You'll work hand-in-hand with communities, businesses, and government agencies to identify and tackle the challenges facing areas frequented by both visitors and residents. You'll champion sustainable solutions that protect our natural resources, celebrate our rich Hawaiian culture, and elevate the experience for everyone who sets foot on our shores.

Your Impact:

• Community Collaboration: Forge meaningful partnerships with local stakeholders to co-create and implement projects that enhance the quality of life for residents while ensuring a positive visitor experience.
• Program Implementation: Oversee a portfolio of initiatives spanning tourism product development, economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.
• Strategic Oversight: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of HTA's programs, ensuring they align with our long-term vision and deliver tangible results.
• Bridge Building: Foster understanding and cooperation between diverse communities, industries, and government entities.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Analyze market trends, community sentiment, and visitor feedback to inform strategic planning and policy recommendations.

Your Island, Your Expertise:

We're seeking an HTA Destination Manager, dedicated to your beloved island (Molokai). Your greatest asset will be your deep connection to your island home and your passion for its future.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent work experience.
• Five years of experience in tourism, economic development, marketing, communications, or a related field.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and navigate complex situations tactfully and diplomatically.
• A demonstrated commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and cultural preservation.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and a passion for making a difference.

Join the Movement:

We want to hear from you if you're ready to contribute your skills and passion to building a brighter future for Hawaiʻi's tourism industry. Please send your cover letter and resume to [email protected] and tell us why you're the ideal candidate to champion regenerative tourism on your island.

Let's shape a legacy of regenerative tourism together.

Note: This position requires a valid Hawaiʻi Driver's License. No phone calls, please.